England defeated DR Congo 2-1 in the Round of 16 of the World Cup in Atlanta, after trailing for much of the match. DR Congo opened the scoring in the 7th minute through Brian Cipenga, before Harry Kane turned the game around with two goals late in the second half, in the 75th and 86th minutes.
Cipenga surprises England in the 7th minute
DR Congo struck first. Following a poorly defended attack by England, Chancel Mbemba sent a ball into the box. Djed Spence failed to clear, Noni Madueke didn't close down his flank, and Brian Cipenga pounced, scoring with a low shot. The ball beat Jordan Pickford at the near post. This goal put England under pressure early on. The English then struggled to find their rhythm, while DR Congo grew in confidence after opening the scoring.
Mpasi delays English return
England pressed forward, but Lionel Mpasi kept DR Congo at bay for much of the game. The Congolese goalkeeper thwarted several attempts, notably from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. Before halftime, he made further crucial saves to prevent England from equalizing. DR Congo also had a golden opportunity to extend their lead: Yoane Wissa hit the post while England were still trailing. That moment could have turned the match in their favor.
Kane equalizes in the 75th minute
England finally broke through in the last quarter of an hour. Second-half substitute Anthony Gordon delivered a cross from the left wing. Harry Kane headed home to equalize in the 75th minute. This goal brought England level after more than an hour spent chasing the game.
Kane scores again in the 86th minute
Eleven minutes later, Kane struck again. The England forward received the ball on the edge of the box, positioned himself to shoot, and unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner. In the 86th minute, England took the lead for the first time in the match. With this brace, Kane prevented England from being eliminated in the round of 32. The English will face Mexico in the round of 16.
