TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – England's national team came from behind to defeat the Democratic Republic (DR) of Congo with a score of 2-1 in the Round of 32 match of the 2026 World Cup at the Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Captain Harry Kane became the determinant of The Three Lions' victory with two goals scored in the second half.
England was surprised by DR Congo's early goal as the match had only been running for seven minutes. Brian Cipenga welcomed a cross at the edge of the penalty box before releasing a low shot that the England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford couldn't reach.
Trailing first, Thomas Tuchel's team tried to increase the intensity of their attacks. Both Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford had opportunities, but their finishing was unable to penetrate the disciplined DR Congo defense.
Approaching half-time, England briefly appealed for a penalty after Harry Kane fell in the forbidden area. However, after reviewing the replay through VAR, the referee decided that no foul had occurred, and thus no penalty was given.
England also nearly equalized during injury time in the first half. Kane's close-range header was brilliantly denied by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau.
Entering the second half, England continued to press. Rashford almost scored through individual skill that bypassed several opposing players, but his shot missed the target. After that, coach Thomas Tuchel then made substitutions by introducing Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon, and Eberechi Eze to increase the attacking power.
England's efforts finally paid off in the 75th minute. Harry Kane successfully headed a cross to the left side of the goal to equalize the score to 1-1. The momentum shifted to England's side after that goal. While DR Congo tried to respond through several player substitutions, the pressure from England continued to increase.
Harry Kane once again became the difference maker in the 86th minute. The 33-year-old striker received a mature pass inside the penalty box before releasing a powerful shot to the top right corner of the goal. England turned the game around to lead 2-1.
The score remained until the final whistle was blown. This victory ensured England's advancement to the Round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup. The Three Lions will face Mexico, who advanced after defeating Ecuador with a score of 2-0.
Read: World Cup Prediction: Can England Break Down DR Congo's Defense?
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