England nearly watched their World Cup dreams unravel in Atlanta. After falling behind to DR Congo in the 7th minute, the Three Lions clawed back with two late goals from Harry Kane to win 2-1 in the Round of 32 on July 1, 2026.
The match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was supposed to be a formality for one of the tournament favorites. DR Congo had other ideas.
A historic night for DR Congo, a nervous one for England
Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo the lead just seven minutes into the match, a goal that carried enormous historical weight. It was the first knockout-stage goal in DR Congo’s World Cup history, a milestone for a nation making waves in the expanded 48-team tournament format.
Harry Kane equalized in the 75th minute, then struck again in the 86th minute to complete the comeback and send DR Congo home.
