England vs Congo DR
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
A. Makhadmeh
2026
Match Report
Kane Brace Rescues England in Dramatic Congo Comeback
England survived a first-half scare to beat DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta, with Harry Kane's two late goals rescuing Thomas Tuchel's side and sending the Three Lions into the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
Brian Cipenga rattled England with a crisp finish after just seven minutes, and Mpasi-Nzau was magnificent in goal for Congo DR, keeping the Europeans at bay deep into the second half. Kane finally broke through in the 75th minute with a close-range header, then sealed a famous comeback in the 86th with a powerful drive into the top corner.
DR Congo can be proud of a performance that pushed one of Europe's heavyweights to the brink. England advance, but face a far sterner test next, a Round of 16 trip to face Mexico, where much more will be needed from Tuchel's men to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
Match Events
Player of the match
Fan pick
Statistics
60%Possession40%
16Shots7
7Shots on Target2
5Corners3
10Fouls12
0Offsides4
1Yellow Cards1
517Passes365
1Saves5
Injuries & Suspensions
Congo DR
No injuries reported
Head to Head
1
England wins
0
Draws
0
Congo DR wins
Goals: 2 - 1


