SAINT-DENIS — England secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over DR Congo in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash, with captain Harry Kane delivering a clinical late-game brace to propel the Three Lions into the next round. Thomas Tuchel’s side now advances to a highly anticipated encounter with Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
Harry Kane Brace Lifts England 2-1 Over DR Congo
• Score: England 2-1 DR Congo, Round of 32
• Goals: Kane 75', 86' after Cipenga 10'
• Next: Face Mexico at Estadio Azteca
• Coach: Thomas Tuchel praises team character
A Rocky Start
England’s ambitions of a smooth passage to the Round of 16 were nearly derailed within the first ten minutes. DR Congo took a shock lead when Brian Cipenga latched onto a precise cross-field ball from Chancel Mbemba, cutting inside to beat Jordan Pickford at his near post.
The early goal stunned the English side, and for much of the opening half, they struggled to find their rhythm. They came close through an Ezri Konsa deflection and a Marcus Rashford strike, the latter of which was expertly cleared off the line by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. England’s frustration grew as Yoane Wissa almost doubled DR Congo’s lead, hitting the woodwork with a powerful close-range effort.
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Kane to the Rescue
Entering the second half trailing 1-0, England intensified their pressure. Despite squandering several opportunities—including a missed effort from Rashford—the team maintained their composure.
The breakthrough finally came in the 75th minute. Anthony Gordon delivered an inviting cross into the box, and Harry Kane expertly guided the ball into the far corner to level the score. With momentum on their side, England pushed for a winner, and the captain delivered again in the 86th minute. After an initial effort by Jude Bellingham was blocked, Kane pounced on the loose ball, unleashing a thunderous strike into the roof of the net to seal the win.
Looking Toward the Azteca
The victory concludes a historic tournament for DR Congo, who exit the World Cup after their first-ever appearance in the knockout stages. For England, the win serves as a vital test of character ahead of their next challenge.
The Three Lions are now set to travel to Mexico City for a daunting Round of 16 tie against the host nation. With Mexico currently riding the wave of their own historic performance in the tournament, the match at the Estadio Azteca promises to be one of the most electric fixtures of the 2026 World Cup.
