AFCON 2025
Harry Kane scored twice in the closing minutes to send England into the World Cup last 16 with a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over DR Congo at Atlanta Stadium.
Congo DR took a shock early lead in the seventh minute when Chancel Mbemba sent a searching ball toward the box that fell to Brian Cipenga, who rifled a shot past Jordan Pickford before celebrating wildly.
England responded after the game’s first hydration break, growing into the contest as the half wore on. Congo DR goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka produced key defensive interventions to deny Marcus Rashford and Jude Bellingham in quick succession.
Yoane Wissa also came close for the Congolese side, striking the post from close range after connecting with a low cross from open play. The chances either side of that moment underlined how much the underdogs threatened throughout the contest.
Kane leveled the score with a header from substitute Anthony Gordon’s cross with roughly 15 minutes remaining, calming English nerves at Atlanta Stadium. Gordon, who had only just come off the bench, proved the catalyst for the turnaround.
Kane then rifled home a stunning winner in the 86th minute to complete the comeback, again teed up by Gordon after a quick England transition. The captain took the chance first-time, sending the ball high into the corner to seal the victory.
Kane’s second goal made him the first England player to score a brace in a World Cup knockout match since Gary Lineker’s performance against Cameroon in 1990. The double also took his career World Cup tally above Brazilian legend Pelé, moving Kane to 13 tournament goals.
DR Congo, appearing in a World Cup knockout match for the first time in their history, pushed England until the final whistle despite the defeat. England will now face co-hosts Mexico in the round of 16 at the Azteca Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 1am BST on Monday.
