Captain Harry Kane scored twice in the closing stages as England came from behind to defeat Congo DR 2-1 and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup round of 16.
England endured a difficult evening and looked set for a shock exit after falling behind early, but Kane’s experience and clinical finishing ultimately rescued Thomas Tuchel’s side in a tense knockout clash.
Congo DR stunned the Three Lions in the seventh minute with a well-worked move. Former Newcastle United defender Chancel Mbemba stepped out from defence and delivered a long pass towards the penalty area.
Djed Spence failed to deal with the danger, allowing Brian Cipenga to collect the ball inside the box before firing a powerful effort beyond Jordan Pickford at his near post.
The early goal lifted the African side, who defended resolutely and threatened England on the counterattack throughout the first half.
England gradually settled into the contest after the first cooling break and began to create opportunities.
Marcus Rashford was denied by a crucial goal-line clearance from Aaron Wan-Bissaka, while goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced an excellent save to keep out Jude Bellingham.
At the other end, Congo DR nearly doubled their advantage when Yoane Wissa met Wan-Bissaka’s inviting delivery from close range, only to see his effort strike the post.
Kane also felt he should have won a penalty shortly before halftime after appearing to be clipped by Mpasi while chasing a loose ball in the area.
However, referee Adham Makhadmeh waved away the appeals, judging that the England captain had gone down too easily.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with England dominating possession but struggling to break down a disciplined Congolese defence.
Tuchel responded by introducing fresh attacking options, and the changes eventually paid off.
England finally found a breakthrough after the second hydration break. Substitute Anthony Gordon reacted quickest to Declan Rice’s overhit cross, retrieving the ball near the byline before delicately lifting it back into the six-yard box.
Kane timed his run perfectly, escaping Axel Tuanzebe and heading home the equaliser to spark celebrations among the England supporters.
With momentum now firmly on their side, England pressed for a winner and found it 11 minutes later. Gordon was involved again, feeding Kane just outside the penalty area.
The striker turned sharply and unleashed a powerful shot that flew beyond Mpasi and into the roof of the net.
The late double completed England’s comeback and ensured their progression to the round of 16, although Tuchel’s men were made to work hard by a determined Congo DR side that came within touching distance of a famous upset.
England will now turn their attention to the next stage of the tournament, while Congo DR exit the competition with their heads held high after producing one of their most spirited performances of the campaign.
