Atlanta, USA: England came from behind to defeat Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 on Wednesday, ending the Leopards’ historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign and securing a place in the Round of 16.
DR Congo stunned the 1966 world champions with an early breakthrough courtesy of Brian Kibambe Cipenga, but England captain Harry Kane scored twice in the closing stages to complete a dramatic comeback in the Round of 32 encounter.
The African side made a dream start when Cipenga, who plays for Spanish club UD Almería, calmly finished at Jordan Pickford’s near post in the seventh minute to ignite hopes of a famous upset.
The Leopards defended resolutely for the remainder of the first half, frustrating England with disciplined organisation and limiting the Three Lions to few meaningful scoring opportunities.
England emerged stronger after the break and dominated possession, but DR Congo continued to repel wave after wave of attacks while looking dangerous on the counter.
Their resistance was finally broken in the 75th minute, when Kane rose highest to head home England’s equaliser and restore belief among the European side.
With extra time looming, the Bayern Munich striker struck again four minutes from full time, powering home the winner to send England into the last 16 and bring DR Congo’s impressive World Cup journey to an end.
The brace moved Kane to five goals at the tournament, one behind Lionel Messi of Argentina and Kylian Mbappé of France in the race for the Golden Boot.
Despite the defeat, DR Congo earned widespread praise for a courageous performance, having held one of the tournament favourites for more than an hour and demonstrated the resilience that carried them into the knockout stages.
England will now face co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16 on July 5 in Mexico City.
The victory also sees England join Brazil, Norway, France, Morocco, Paraguay and Mexico among the teams that have already secured places in the last 16.
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