Historic Kane Brace Rescues England Against DR Congo

England survived a major scare at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as captain Harry Kane struck twice late on to overturn a deficit and secure a 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the Round of 32.

The win sends England into the Round of 16 for the third successive edition, where they will face co‑hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on July 6.

England had trailed from the seventh minute when Brian Cipenga scored Congo’s first-ever international goal in a World Cup knockout match.

A crossfield ball from the right was flicked on by Chancel Mbemba, leaving Cipenga free to fire a low shot past Jordan Pickford at the near post.

The Three Lions struggled to respond in the first half, with Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi producing superb saves from two Jude Bellingham headers.

Noni Madueke’s run created a chance for Marcus Rashford, only for Aaron Wan‑Bissaka to clear off the line. On the stroke of half‑time, Mpasi again denied Kane from close range. Congo nearly doubled their lead when Yoane Wissa turned Wan‑Bissaka’s cross against the post.

Manager Thomas Tuchel’s tactical changes proved decisive.

Substitute Anthony Gordon delivered the cross for Kane to head home his 12th World Cup finals goal in the 75th minute. Eleven minutes later, Kane turned away from his marker and blasted an unstoppable shot inside the near post for his 13th World Cup goal, sealing England’s dramatic comeback.

For the first time in their history, England won a World Cup match after trailing at half‑time. In nine previous instances, they had drawn twice and lost seven times.