Harry Kane saved England from a major World Cup embarrassment after scoring two late goals to secure a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo in Atlanta.
England were staring at one of their worst World Cup exits after Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo a surprise early lead. But Kane, once again carrying his country in a decisive moment, stepped up when it mattered most to send Thomas Tuchel’s side into the last 16.
The result keeps England’s dream alive as they continue their push to end a 60-year wait for a major international trophy. However, the performance raised serious concerns ahead of a difficult knockout clash against co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday.
DR Congo entered the match as underdogs but showed no fear. Back at the World Cup for the first time in 52 years, the Leopards had already written a special story by reaching the knockout stage. Against England, they came close to turning that story into one of the biggest shocks in tournament history.
Cipenga opened the scoring after England were exposed down the right flank. Djed Spence was caught under Chancel Mbemba’s cross, allowing the ball to fall kindly for the Almeria winger. Cipenga struck low and hard, and although the shot carried power, Jordan Pickford will feel he should have done better at his near post.
The goal stunned England and lifted DR Congo, who grew in confidence as the first half developed. England looked unsettled, with Jude Bellingham booked after a rash challenge before later appearing frustrated during an exchange with Tuchel at the hydration break.
England eventually created chances, but DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi stood firm. Bellingham forced him into a strong save with a header from Declan Rice’s cross, while Marcus Rashford saw a powerful effort blocked on the line by Aaron Wan Bissaka after good work from Noni Madueke.
DR Congo also had a golden chance to double their lead before half-time. Yoane Wissa, who had been one of their standout players in the group stage, hit the outside of the post from close range when England’s defence was opened up again.
Kane also had a penalty appeal waved away after going down while trying to round Mpasi, before the DR Congo goalkeeper produced more heroics to deny Bellingham and then Kane before the break.
England started the second half with more urgency, but they still lacked the sharpness and control expected from a side viewed as one of the tournament favourites. Tuchel eventually turned to his bench, introducing Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze in search of a way back.
The changes finally gave England more life in attack. Gordon, a new Barcelona signing, delivered the cross that allowed Kane to head home the equaliser with 15 minutes remaining.
Kane then completed the comeback late on, breaking DR Congo hearts and sparking huge relief among the England supporters. The captain’s double took him to 13 World Cup goals overall and five in the tournament, keeping him firmly in the Golden Boot race.
For DR Congo, the defeat was painful but their campaign remains one of pride. They returned to the World Cup after more than five decades away, won admiration with their spirit, and pushed one of football’s biggest nations to the limit.
For England, the result was enough, but the performance was not convincing. Tuchel’s side survived a scare, but they will need to improve quickly if they are to overcome Mexico in the next round.
Kane delivered when England needed him most. Now the rest of the team must rise with him.
