Atlanta, July 2: In an exciting match during the FIFA World Cup 2026, England secured a spot in the Round of 16 by defeating DR Congo 2-1 on Wednesday. The team will face Mexico on July 6 at the Mexico City Stadium.
Played at Atlanta Stadium, England’s captain Harry Kane showcased his skills by scoring two crucial goals, helping the team recover after initially trailing by one goal.
England fell behind early in the seventh minute when DR Congo’s Bryan Sipenga netted the first goal. However, Kane equalized in the 75th minute and then scored the winning goal in the 86th minute, turning the match in England’s favor.
This victory marks the first time since 1986 that the “Three Lions” have come back to win a World Cup match after being down at halftime, advancing to the Round of 16.
The 1966 World Cup champions have never lost to African teams in their last nine World Cup encounters, and they maintained this record in Atlanta.
After Germany and the Netherlands were eliminated from the knockout stage, there were concerns that England might also exit early, especially as they trailed for over an hour. Despite creating several chances in the second half, they faced tough resistance from DR Congo’s goalkeeper, Lionel Mpasi, who made some remarkable saves to keep his team’s hopes alive.
DR Congo, making their first appearance in a World Cup knockout match, started strong with Sipegna’s goal. A cross-field ball from Chance M’bemba found Sipegna, who was unmarked on the left side of the box. He fired a low shot that beat Jordan Pickford at his near post.
England took some time to respond, creating numerous opportunities. Mpasi made excellent saves against two headers from Jude Bellingham. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford had a chance to shoot at the far post after a run into the box by Noni Madueke, but Aaron Wan-Bissaka cleared the ball off the line. Just before halftime, Mpasi denied Kane’s volley from close range after a corner.
On the other end, DR Congo nearly scored again when Yoane Wissa hit the post with a low center from Wan-Bissaka, missing a golden opportunity.
Changes made by coach Thomas Tuchel in the wingers sparked hope for a comeback. Substitute Anthony Gordon delivered a cross to Kane, who scored with a header. The number 13 proved lucky for England, as Kane evaded his marker and struck a shot that was impossible to save. Kane’s goals in the 75th and 86th minutes secured England’s victory.
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