Harry Kane netted a brace as England came from the back to defeat Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 on Wednesday 1 July, 2026 at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, United States (US).
This means Kane’s double helped the Three Lions survive what would had been one of the biggest humiliations in the history of the World Cup as they dumped out the Leopards.
The victory plunged Thomas Tuchel’s England straight into the Round of 16.
The European side were fifteen (15) minutes away from ninety (90) minutes as it appeared they would be embarrassed out of the tournament by DR Congo, who defended their early lead heavily.
Early, in the 7th minute, Almeria winger, Brian Cipenga, gave DR Congo the lead with an assist from Lille defender, Chancel Mbemba.
The Three Lions were unable to find the net until the 75th minute when Bayern Munich forward, Kane, received a supply from Barcelona winger, Anthony Gordon; Kane rescued his side by heading in the ball.
It was the same duo of Gordon and Kane that helped England to the next phase of the tournament as the former Newcastle United player provided for the former Tottenham Hotspur forward, who netted the winner in the 86th minute.
Lionel Mpasi, goalkeeper of DR Congo, made several crucial saves to hinder England, but, thanks to Kane’s goal scoring prowess and beautiful performance from substitute, Gordon, the Three Lions have progressed to the last 16 of the tournament.
Tuchel will now groom England for a round of 16 showdown against co-hosts, Mexico, at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on Monday, 6 July, 2026.
Kane really delivered for his country in Atlanta. This means that world-class players produce the jaw-dropping moments at big tournaments like the World Cup. His first goal was a thunderous header, while, the second showed he is a complete player.
However, applause must be given to susbtitue, Gordon, who has been silent in the World Cup 2026. His brace assist made it possible for England to scale through their rigid Central African opponents in Atlanta.
With his brace against the Leopards, Kane now has five (5) goals in the World Cup so far.
In one of the other Round of 32 matches, Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 at Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico.
Photo: Harry Kane celebrates with teammate, Jude Bellingham, after levelling for England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 against DR Congo on Wednesday in Atlanta, US
