England overcame an early scare and produced a spirited comeback to defeat DR Congo, securing their place in the World Cup last 16 after a dramatic encounter in Atlanta. The African side stunned England by striking first and threatening one of the tournament’s biggest upsets. Brian Cipenga’s seventh-minute goal handed DR Congo an early advantage and sent their supporters into celebration, while England were left searching for answers.

For much of the match, Thomas Tuchel’s side struggled to find their rhythm. Defensive lapses and missed opportunities allowed DR Congo to remain in control, while goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi delivered an outstanding performance between the posts, repeatedly frustrating England’s attackers with a string of crucial saves.

As the clock ticked down, memories of past England disappointments appeared to be resurfacing. DR Congo, one of the tournament’s surprise stories and a team carrying the hopes of a nation, looked capable of producing a famous result.

But Harry Kane had other ideas.

With England’s World Cup campaign hanging in the balance, the captain stepped up when his team needed him most. Refusing to let England’s journey end in the group stage, Kane inspired a comeback that transformed the mood of the contest.

His first goal arrived at a critical moment. Meeting a delivery from substitute Anthony Gordon, Kane guided a close-range header beyond Mpasi to bring England level and spark renewed belief among his teammates.

The equaliser shifted the momentum firmly in England’s favour. After spending much of the evening defending bravely, DR Congo began to tire as England pushed forward in search of a winner.

Kane delivered it in emphatic fashion.

Finding space on the right side of the penalty area, the England skipper unleashed a powerful finish high into the net, completing the turnaround and sealing a vital victory. His second goal of the night ensured there would be no upset and confirmed England’s progression to the knockout stages.

The comeback victory means England now advance to a last-16 showdown against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca, while Kane’s decisive brace once again underlined his importance on the biggest stage.

After falling behind early and facing the prospect of a shock defeat, England found their hero in their captain, whose two goals kept their World Cup dream alive.