Harry Kane (Pc-X) Harry Kane once again rescued England on the biggest stage, scoring twice in the closing stages as the Three Lions came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 and book their place in the Round of 16, where they will face Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. For much of the evening at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, England looked headed for one of their most embarrassing World Cup exits. DR Congo defended with discipline, counter-attacked with purpose and were inspired by an outstanding display from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.

But when England needed a leader, Kane delivered. Thomas Tuchel’s side began brightly, pressing high and forcing errors, but their early momentum vanished after just seven minutes. A long ball exposed England’s back line, and Cipenga capitalised on the space, controlling the ball before driving a fierce finish past Jordan Pickford at his near post.

The goal rattled England. Passes went astray, crosses failed to find their targets, and frustration spread around the stadium. Jude Bellingham was booked for a rash challenge, while boos greeted England at the hydration break as DR Congo continued to look the more dangerous side on the counter.

England gradually regained control before half-time but found Mpasi in unbeatable form. The Congolese goalkeeper denied Bellingham twice with excellent saves, kept out a powerful Kane volley and was rescued by last-ditch defending as Aaron Wan-Bissaka cleared Marcus Rashford’s effort off the goal line after Axel Tuanzebe had already blocked Kane’s close-range attempt. England were also left furious when Kane appeared to be brought down inside the area, only for the referee and VAR to wave away their appeals.

DR Congo could easily have doubled their lead before the interval, but Yoane Wissa somehow struck the post from point-blank range after another swift break. Tuchel responded after the restart by introducing Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon, injecting greater urgency into England’s attack. Rashford missed a gilt-edged opportunity, Bellingham was denied again by Mpasi, while the Congolese goalkeeper produced another remarkable stop to claw away a looping cross that seemed destined for the net.

Despite dominating possession, England remained vulnerable whenever DR Congo broke forward. Mbuku nearly settled the contest midway through the second half, only for a crucial deflection to divert his effort away from goal. England’s persistence finally paid off in the 75th minute.

Gordon floated an inviting cross into the box and Kane rose highest to power home the equaliser with a trademark header. With extra time looming, England’s captain produced one more decisive moment. Four minutes from time, Kane collected a pass from Gordon just outside the penalty area with his back to goal, shifted it onto his stronger foot and unleashed an unstoppable strike into the top corner to complete a remarkable turnaround.

The victory spared England a shock exit and underlined Kane’s enduring importance. His brace took him to 13 World Cup goals, taking him past Pelé on the competition’s all-time scoring list. For DR Congo, it was a heartbreaking end after an outstanding performance built on defensive organisation, dangerous counter-attacks and Mpasi’s heroics.

They pushed one of the tournament favourites to the brink, but Kane’s quality ultimately proved the difference. Follow for more updates. The post appeared first on .