World Cup 2026 news: England survive DR Congo scare as Harry Kane strikes twice
Harry Kane once again proved England's match-winner as the captain scored twice in the final 15 minutes to inspire a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32.
After falling behind to Brian Cipenga's early opener, Thomas Tuchel's side spent much of the contest searching for a breakthrough.
However, Kane delivered when it mattered most, booking England's place in the last 16 against co-hosts Mexico.
DR Congo threaten a famous upset
England's knockout campaign could hardly have begun in more difficult fashion.
DR Congo stunned the Three Lions inside seven minutes when Cipenga capitalised on defensive uncertainty to fire the African nation into an early lead.
Despite dominating possession for long periods, England found Lionel Mpasi in inspired form.
The goalkeeper repeatedly denied Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, while Marcus Rashford also saw an effort cleared off the line as DR Congo's disciplined defensive display frustrated Tuchel's side.
England were also left frustrated after Kane's penalty appeal was waved away late in the first half, but they continued to push for an equaliser.
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Kane answers England's call
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 75th minute.
Substitute Anthony Gordon delivered an inviting cross and Kane rose highest to power a header beyond Mpasi, shifting the momentum firmly in England's favour.
With extra time looming, Kane produced the decisive moment once again.
Finding space on the edge of the area, the England captain rifled an unstoppable finish into the roof of the net in the 86th minute to complete the turnaround and send the Three Lions into the last 16.
The brace also moved Kane onto 13 World Cup goals, taking him past Pelé on the tournament's all-time scoring list.
Tuchel praises England's belief
England head coach Thomas Tuchel reserved special praise for his captain after another decisive performance.
"It's what we expect from him,” Tuchel said, quoted on Sky Sports. “It's what he expects from himself.
"Difficult matches, close matches – Harry's here to decide them. Top level."
Reflecting on the overall performance, Tuchel highlighted his side's persistence despite falling behind early.
"We kept knocking, knocking and knocking. The reaction and belief is one of a kind. We found a way to win. Well deserved."
Kane: ‘We had to stay patient’
Kane admitted England had been tested but believed their attacking display deserved more goals.
"It feels amazing to be honest,” the England captain said. “What a crazy game. First and foremost, we're playing against a tough and organised team."
"After that first hydration break, we upped the level. The keeper made some unbelievable saves. But keep going and the moments would come."
The striker also urged England to enjoy reaching the last 16.
"Sometimes as an England player, you don't celebrate how you should. The same as every other nation, we're through – enjoy it."
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Mexico awaits
England's reward is a last-16 meeting with co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium.
While the Three Lions ultimately found a way through, the performance also exposed areas requiring improvement before facing stronger opposition.
For now, though, England remain alive in the tournament thanks to the man they have relied upon so many times before.
When the pressure reached its highest point, Harry Kane delivered once again.
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