Harry Kane produced a dramatic late double to spare England from what would have been one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, as the Three Lions came from behind to beat the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 in their round of 32 match. The Bayern Munich striker struck twice in the final 15 minutes after Brian Cipenga had given the African side a shock early lead, securing a victory that keeps England's hopes of ending their 60-year trophy drought alive.
England manager Thomas Tuchel was full of praise for his captain after the match, describing Kane's performance as «world-class» and highlighting his ability to deliver under pressure. «Harry is a special player, a leader who never gives up,» Tuchel said. «When the team needed him most, he stepped up. That is what great players do.» The win was particularly significant as it marked the first time England have won a World Cup match after conceding the first goal since their famous 1966 final victory over West Germany at Wembley.
The match, played in front of a tense crowd, saw England struggle to find their rhythm early on. DR Congo took a surprise lead through Cipenga, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home in the first half. The goal stunned the Three Lions and threatened to derail their campaign, but Kane's resilience and composure in the closing stages turned the game around. His first goal came from a well-worked team move, while the second was a clinical finish from close range after a scramble in the box.
Tuchel acknowledged that his side had been «nowhere near their best» for large parts of the game, but insisted that the character shown to fight back was a positive sign. «We had a huge disadvantage in terms of the conditions and the pressure, but the team showed mental strength,» he said. «We know we need to improve, but this kind of win can build momentum.» The German coach also noted that England's performance was a reminder of the fine margins in knockout football, where a single moment of quality can decide the outcome.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated last-16 clash against co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca, a fixture that carries significant historical and emotional weight. England have a mixed record against Mexico in World Cups, and the match will be played in front of a partisan crowd. Tuchel described the upcoming tie as a «huge challenge» but expressed confidence in his squad's ability to rise to the occasion. «Mexico are a strong team with passionate support, but we have quality and belief,» he said.
Kane's heroics have also sparked excitement among England fans, many of whom had braced for an early exit. The captain's goals not only kept the tournament dream alive but also reinforced his status as one of the world's premier strikers. With 65 international goals, Kane continues to close in on Wayne Rooney's all-time England scoring record, and his performances in this World Cup will be crucial if the Three Lions are to go deep into the competition.
Looking ahead, England's route to the final could include meetings with other top sides, but Tuchel is focused on the immediate task. «We take it one game at a time,» he said. «The next match is the most important. We will prepare well and give everything to make the country proud.» The match against Mexico is scheduled for a late kick-off in the UK, with Tuchel urging parents to let their children stay up to watch. «Write an excuse for school,» he joked. «This is a moment to remember.»
For DR Congo, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow after coming so close to a historic result. Their performance earned plaudits, but ultimately Kane's quality proved decisive. As England turn their attention to Mexico, the Three Lions will hope that their captain's late rescue act marks the beginning of a memorable run in the tournament.
