Harry Kane Rescues England With Late Double in 2-1 World Cup Win Over DR Congo

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 2026 — Harry Kane once again proved why he remains England’s most important player after scoring twice late in the second half to rescue the Three Lions in a tense 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32.

England entered the knockout match as favourites, but Thomas Tuchel’s side were stunned early when DR Congo took the lead in the seventh minute through Brian Cipenga. The goal came after a defensive lapse from England, giving the African side belief that they could produce one of the biggest shocks of the tournament.

DR Congo played with confidence, discipline and energy for most of the match. Their defensive structure frustrated England, while goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced several important saves to keep his team in front.

England struggled to find rhythm in the first half. Despite having more possession, the Three Lions lacked sharpness in the final third and were unable to break down DR Congo’s compact defensive line.

The pressure continued to grow after half-time as England searched for an equaliser. Tuchel then turned to his bench, bringing on fresh attacking energy to change the tempo of the match.

Anthony Gordon became one of the key figures in England’s comeback. His direct running and delivery from wide areas gave England a new attacking route, and it was his cross that created the equaliser in the 75th minute.

Kane rose strongly inside the penalty area and headed the ball into the net, bringing England level and shifting the momentum completely.

The goal lifted England’s confidence, while DR Congo began to lose the defensive control that had carried them for much of the game.

Just 11 minutes later, Kane delivered again. The England captain struck a powerful finish from outside the box in the 86th minute to complete the comeback and secure England’s place in the next round.

The late winner sparked huge relief among England players, staff and supporters, who had watched their team come dangerously close to an early knockout exit.

For Kane, the brace was another historic moment in his international career. His two goals took him to 13 career World Cup goals, moving him ahead of Brazilian legend Pelé on the all-time World Cup scoring list.

Kane has now scored five goals at the 2026 World Cup, keeping him firmly in the race for the Golden Boot alongside some of the tournament’s biggest names.

The Bayern Munich forward continues to be England’s main source of goals and leadership. His ability to decide matches under pressure remains one of the biggest reasons England are still alive in the tournament.

Tuchel praised Kane’s mentality and finishing quality after the match, describing him as one of the elite forwards capable of changing games when chances appear.

However, the result also raised questions about England’s overall performance. Despite advancing, the Three Lions looked vulnerable defensively and struggled for long periods against a DR Congo side that played with courage and organisation.

England will need to improve quickly before facing Mexico in the Round of 16. The match will be played at Estadio Azteca, where Mexico are expected to receive strong home support.

Mexico advanced after beating Ecuador 2-0 in their Round of 32 match, making the upcoming clash one of the most anticipated fixtures of the knockout stage.

For DR Congo, the defeat was painful but their performance earned respect. They pushed one of the tournament favourites to the limit and came close to writing one of the most memorable stories of the World Cup.

Brian Cipenga’s early goal gave DR Congo hope, while the team’s defensive discipline and fighting spirit showed how far they have progressed on the international stage.

But in the end, England had Kane. His late double turned frustration into relief and kept England’s dream of winning a first World Cup since 1966 alive.

The Three Lions now move forward, but the message is clear: their title hopes may depend not only on Kane’s finishing, but also on whether the rest of the team can raise their level in the tougher rounds ahead.