England advanced to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 victory over DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday. The Three Lions survived a major scare in the knockout match before captain Harry Kane rescued the team with two late goals.
The match began in shocking fashion for England when Brian Cipenga punished a defensive lapse in the seventh minute. Cipenga took control of a crossfield ball on the left side of the penalty area and unleashed a powerful strike that beat goalkeeper Jordan Pickford at his near post. This early goal set a chaotic tone for the opening spell, leaving Thomas Tuchel’s side rattled and struggling to find its rhythm against an organized DR Congo defense.
DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a string of outstanding reflex saves to keep his team ahead. He denied Jude Bellingham twice, stopping a close-range header and blocking a powerful effort from the edge of the box. DR Congo also looked dangerous on the counter-attack as Yoane Wissa struck the post before half-time.
England gradually improved after the break but continued to face frustration from Mpasi. The turning point finally arrived when Tuchel introduced substitute wingers Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka to add width and urgency.
Gordon provided a precise cross in the 75th minute, allowing Kane to level the score with a powerful header. With only four minutes remaining, Kane received another pass from Gordon at the edge of the penalty box, spun away from his marker, and rocketed a shot into the top corner. England held on to protect its lead and will now face co-hosts Mexico in the next round.
