Harry Kane scored twice as England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 and book a World Cup last-16 showdown with Mexico.
ENGLAND EDGE DR CONGO
England survived a major World Cup scare on Wednesday night, fighting back from a goal down to defeat DR Congo 2-1 and secure a place in the last 16.
Thomas Tuchel’s side looked destined for an early exit after DR Congo struck first through Brian Cipenga in the seventh minute. The forward took a touch inside the box before firing past Jordan Pickford to give the African side a dream start in Atlanta.
England struggled for long periods and appeared to be heading home before captain Harry Kane stepped up when it mattered most. The striker powered home a header from Anthony Gordon’s cross in the 75th minute to level the contest and spark belief among the Three Lions.
Kane then completed the turnaround 11 minutes later, blasting a fierce right-footed effort into the roof of the net to send England into the next round. The victory sets up a difficult last-16 meeting with Mexico at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Jordan Pickford – 4/10: Got a hand to Cipenga’s opener but failed to keep it out. That moment overshadowed an otherwise quiet evening.
Djed Spence – 4/10: Struggled defensively and was caught out of position during the move that led to DR Congo’s goal. Replaced in the second half.
Ezri Konsa – 4/10: Had a difficult outing, looking slow in possession and unconvincing at the back.
Marc Guehi – 5/10: Part of a shaky central defensive partnership but performed slightly better than Konsa.
Nico O’Reilly – 6/10: The most reliable member of England’s back four and avoided major mistakes.
Declan Rice – 6/10: Worked hard in midfield and provided an outlet, though his set-piece delivery lacked precision.
Elliot Anderson – 5/10: Neat on the ball but failed to make a major impact.
Noni Madueke – 5/10: Showed flashes of danger but struggled to consistently trouble the Congolese defence.
Jude Bellingham – 6/10: Forced several excellent saves from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and remained influential despite not reaching top gear.
Marcus Rashford – 5/10: Came close on a couple of occasions but could not find the breakthrough before being substituted.
Harry Kane – 10/10: The star of the night. Scored both goals and delivered when England needed him most.
Substitutes
Bukayo Saka – 7/10: Added energy and attacking threat down the right flank.
Anthony Gordon – 9/10: Changed the game with two assists, providing both crosses that led to Kane’s goals.
Eberechi Eze – 8/10: Made an immediate impact after coming on and played a key role in England’s comeback.
John Stones – N/A: Introduced late to help protect the lead and was not on the pitch long enough to receive a rating.
NEWS NOW:
