Kane double fires England to comeback win over DR Congo at World Cup 2026

England came from behind to defeat the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 in Atlanta on Wednesday, with captain Harry Kane scoring twice in the final 15 minutes to secure a place in the World Cup last 16. Thomas Tuchel's side trailed early after Brian Cipenga fired DR Congo ahead in the first half, silencing the predominantly English crowd of nearly 70,000.

DR Congo, making their first World Cup appearance in 52 years, defended resolutely, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi making a series of outstanding saves. He denied Jude Bellingham and Kane himself in the first half, and also saw a point-blank effort from Yoane Wissa hit the post. However, England's pressure eventually told when Kane headed home from Anthony Gordon's cross in the 75th minute. Then, with four minutes left, Kane smashed in his second of the night – his 84th international goal – after another assist from Gordon.

Tuchel praised his team's belief, saying they kept patience and deserved the victory. Kane acknowledged DR Congo's toughness and Mpasi's heroics, but stressed the importance of grinding out results in knockout football. England now face a daunting last-16 tie against co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday.