Kane double rescues England against DR Congo

England secures last 16 spot after late comeback against DR Congo

Harry Kane rescued England from a humiliating World Cup exit in Atlanta, netting two late goals to secure a 2-1 victory over DR Congo. Thomas Tuchel’s side appeared destined for a shock departure from the tournament after trailing for most of the encounter, only for their captain to intervene during a frantic final fifteen minutes.

The contest began in disastrous fashion for England when Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo a surprise lead just seven minutes into the match. Despite dominating possession, England struggled to break down a resolute defence, and the deficit remained until the latter stages of the second half. DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a series of exceptional saves to frustrate the English attack, while Yoane Wissa narrowly missed a golden opportunity to extend the African side’s lead just before the interval, hitting the post with the goal gaping.

The turning point arrived in the 75th minute. Anthony Gordon, introduced from the bench, delivered a precise cross that Harry Kane met with a clinical header to level the scores. With the momentum shifting and the match entering its final moments, Kane struck again in the 86th minute. The striker collected the ball at the edge of the penalty area, turned sharply, and unleashed a thunderous right-footed effort that flew past Mpasi into the top corner.

This dramatic turnaround ensures England avoids a major upset and progresses to the knockout stages. The team now turns its attention to a challenging fixture against co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. The match is scheduled for Monday, 6 July, at 01:00 BST. While the performance left much to be desired, the clinical nature of Kane’s late intervention provides England with a necessary boost as they advance in the competition.

-BBC