Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes to spare England from one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the Three Lions came from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 and secure their place in the quarter-finals. For much of the evening, however, Thomas Tuchel's side looked destined for an early exit.
DR Congo Shocked the Tournament Favourites
England entered the knockout tie as overwhelming favourites, but the underdogs wasted no time turning the script upside down.
A long ball over the top caught the English defence off guard, allowing Brian Cipenga to race through and beat Jordan Pickford at his near post. The Everton goalkeeper will feel he should have done better, as DR Congo grabbed a surprise early lead.
The African side nearly doubled its advantage soon afterwards. Yoane Wissa found himself unmarked inside the box but could only strike the post from close range, giving England a lifeline.
England gradually responded, creating several excellent chances before halftime. Jude Bellingham was denied twice by the outstanding Lionel Mpasi, while both Marcus Rashford and Kane failed to convert promising opportunities.
Harry Kane Like Hurricane
The pattern continued after the restart. England dominated possession and territory, but every attack seemed to end with another save from Mpasi or a missed opportunity.
Eventually, the pressure became too much.
With 15 minutes remaining, Anthony Gordon delivered a teasing cross into the penalty area and Kane escaped his marker to power a header into the net, finally bringing England level.
The equaliser completely shifted the momentum. Suddenly playing with confidence, England pinned DR Congo deep inside its own half and searched relentlessly for a winner.
It arrived only minutes later.
Kane once again found space inside the box and unleashed a thunderous finish into the roof of the net, completing the comeback and sending England through.
Next Station – Mexico
The Three Lions ultimately avoided disaster, but their performance left plenty to discuss.
Despite progressing to the quarter-finals, England struggled for long stretches against a disciplined and fearless DR Congo side that came within minutes of producing one of the tournament's greatest surprises.
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Tuchel's men will now face Mexico in the next round, while DR Congo exits the World Cup with its reputation enhanced after pushing one of the pre-tournament favourites to the brink.