Omanghana
England staged a dramatic second-half comeback to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Captain Harry Kane delivered when it mattered most, scoring twice in the closing stages to rescue the Three Lions after they had trailed for much of the contest.
The victory sends Thomas Tuchel’s side into the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico in a blockbuster knockout encounter at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Sunday, July 5.
DR Congo Make Dream Start
Making their first-ever appearance in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage, DR Congo stunned England with an early breakthrough in the seventh minute.
Brian Cipenga capitalized on a swift attacking move before drilling a low finish beyond the England goalkeeper, giving the African side a deserved 1-0 advantage and silencing the English supporters inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
DR Congo continued to impress with an organized defensive display and relentless pressing, frustrating England throughout the opening half. Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was outstanding, producing several key saves to preserve his team’s lead.
England headed into halftime trailing 1-0 and facing the possibility of one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.
Penalty Controversy Adds to England’s Frustration
England thought they had a chance to level before the break when Harry Kane collided with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi inside the penalty area in the 43rd minute.
However, the referee waved away appeals for a penalty and instead cautioned Kane for simulation, leaving England increasingly frustrated as DR Congo maintained their narrow advantage.
Anthony Gordon Changes the Game
Thomas Tuchel’s tactical changes proved decisive in the second half, particularly the introduction of Anthony Gordon.
The substitute injected pace and creativity into England’s attack, stretching the Congolese defense and creating the openings that had been missing for much of the match.
His impact quickly transformed England’s attacking rhythm and ultimately proved to be the turning point.
Harry Kane Delivers Another Captain’s Performance
England finally found their breakthrough in the 75th minute.
Anthony Gordon delivered a pinpoint cross into the penalty area, where Harry Kane rose above the defenders to power a header into the net, bringing England level at 1-1.
With momentum now firmly on England’s side, Kane completed the comeback just 11 minutes later.
In the 86th minute, Gordon once again supplied the assist before Kane unleashed a powerful right-footed strike that flew into the top corner, sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory for the Three Lions.
The brace not only secured England’s place in the next round but also saw Kane move ahead of Brazilian legend Pelé on the FIFA World Cup’s all-time scoring charts.
Match Timeline
- 7th minute: Brian Cipenga gives DR Congo a shock 1-0 lead with a low finish.
- 43rd minute: Harry Kane is denied a penalty after colliding with Lionel Mpasi and is booked for simulation.
- 75th minute: Kane heads home Anthony Gordon’s cross to equalize for England.
- 86th minute: Kane fires a spectacular right-footed shot into the top corner to complete England’s comeback.
England Set for Mexico Showdown
With the victory, England advance to the Round of 16, where they will take on co-hosts Mexico at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Sunday, July 5.
After surviving a major scare against a spirited DR Congo side, England will hope to build on their dramatic comeback as they continue their pursuit of World Cup glory.
Source: Omanghana
