England survived a significant scare against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) to win 2-1 and advance to the last 16 of the World Cup 2026. The match, held in Atlanta, saw DR Congo take an early lead through Brian Cipenga. However, England’s captain Harry Kane scored two late goals to secure the comeback victory.

The win allowed Thomas Tuchel’s squad to avoid one of England’s worst-ever World Cup exits and continue their quest to end a 60-year wait for a major tournament title. Despite the victory, the team faces scrutiny over the German coach’s decision not to include more specialist right-back cover in the 26-man squad, a factor that contributed to DR Congo’s early goal down that flank.

England now prepares for a challenging last-16 clash against cohosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday. Mexico secured their own last-16 spot by beating Ecuador 2-0, breaking a 40-year curse.

The match also featured moments of tension, including a yellow card for England’s Jude Bellingham and a heated exchange with coach Tuchel during a mid-half hydration break.

Sources