By our reporter with agency reports 1.7.2026
Congo DR were only 20 minutes away from creating the first major upset of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in their round of 32 clash against England, but Harry Kane with a brace put The Three Lions back into contention for the title.
The Congo DR Leopards were offered a dream start when Brian Cipenga punished a defensive lapse on the right side, unleashing a powerful strike that left the English defence stunned. The early goal set the tone for a chaotic opening spell, with England rattled, committing uncharacteristic errors and struggling to settle against a well-organised DR Congo side.
The Three Lions struggle to find a way around the Congo DR defence and when they did goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi denied them on several occasions.
DR Congo, meanwhile, looked dangerous on the counter, with Wissa striking the post and Mbuku threatening from set pieces. England gradually improved after the break, but continued to be frustrated by Mpasi, who looked unbeatable for long spells.
But Kane showed why he is the leading goal scorer in the German Budesliga with Bayern Munich when he magnificently turned in a header to cancel Congo DR’s fragile lead.
In the 86th minute, Kane struck once more in signature style, controlling sharply, spinning away from his markers and smashing a powerful effort under the bar to complete the comeback.
Speaking after the game Kane said: “What a crazy game. They are a tough team and then after that first break, we were much better and their keeper made some unbelievable saves.
“We spoke about people having hero moments and it can be anyone. It was me today. We spoke all week about just being ourselves.
“There are still things to work on for sure, and these rounds are just about getting through. We are in the part of the tournament when you have to grind wins out, and that’s what we have done today.” With agency reports