England vs Congo DR
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
A. Makhadmeh
2026
Match Report
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
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

