World Cup 2026: England secure 2-1 comeback win over DR Congo thanks to Harry Kane brace to reach Round of 16

Harry Kane scored twice as England produced a determined 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo in their Round of 32 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, booking their place in the Round of 16 after a tense contest at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Despite falling behind early and being tested throughout by a spirited DR Congo side, England’s quality and persistence eventually told, with Kane once again proving decisive on the global stage.

DR Congo Strike First to Stun England Early

The match began with a shock as DR Congo took an early lead through Brian Cipenga, who produced a composed finish from the edge of the box in the 7th minute, placing a low shot into the bottom left corner.

England were immediately forced into response mode, with Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford both involved in early attacking moves as they searched for an equaliser.

Mpasi-Nzau Produces First-Half Heroics

DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau stood tall in a relentless first-half onslaught from England, pulling off a series of crucial saves to maintain his side’s advantage.

Bellingham came closest when he met a cross inside the area, only for Mpasi-Nzau to produce a brilliant stop. Rashford also came within inches of scoring, while Kane was denied from point-blank range just before the interval after a superb save following a corner situation.

DR Congo also threatened to double their lead when Yoane Wissa struck the post with a powerful effort after a well-worked attack, leaving England fortunate to remain just one goal down at half-time.

Kane Leads England’s Second-Half Fightback

England’s breakthrough finally arrived in the 75th minute when Kane rose highest to meet a precise cross, guiding a perfect header inside the left post beyond Mpasi-Nzau’s reach.

The equaliser shifted momentum firmly in England’s favour, and they continued to press forward in search of a winner.

That decisive moment arrived in the 86th minute, when Kane latched onto a well-weighted pass and calmly slotted the ball into the top right corner to complete his brace and complete the comeback.

England Advance to Face Mexico

With the victory secured, England move on to the Round of 16 where they will face Mexico, continuing their pursuit of World Cup glory.

For DR Congo, the performance will be remembered for their resilience and missed opportunities, but it is England who progress, powered once again by Kane’s decisive finishing.