Harry Kane double rescues England from World Cup shock against DR Congo in Atlanta

The shock lead

In Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium, England conceded early when Brian Cipenga slotted past Jordan Pickford in the 7th minute, giving DR Congo a lead that would last deep into the second half. The African side, appearing in only its second World Cup and first since 1974 as Zaire, had already made history just by reaching the knockout phase. Their fearless, proactive play unsettled the heavily favoured English, who did not manage a shot on target before the interval.

Kane's rescue act

England pressed but found goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi in outstanding form. He denied Jude Bellingham twice from point-blank range and also stopped Harry Kane from close quarters. Yoane Wissa struck the post for DR Congo just before half-time, nearly doubling the lead. Thomas Tuchel’s team improved after a hydration break, and in the 75th minute Anthony Gordon crossed for Kane to head home the equaliser. Eleven minutes later Gordon again set up Kane, who blasted the ball under the crossbar to make it 2-1.

The financial gap was stark: according to Polish reports, England’s squad is valued at nearly 1.5 billion euros, while DR Congo’s is just 125 million. For 75 minutes that disparity was invisible.

What they said

Tuchel admitted his side had "the worst possible start" and praised the team’s patience. Kane called the game "crazy" and credited a shift in intensity after the break. DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre lamented: "One of the best players in the world scored two goals. It is a pity."

Pundits were unanimous in hailing the England captain. Wayne Rooney said on BBC One that Kane’s header was "a genius move" but the second goal was "incredible, he is our superstar and our hero." Joe Hart added: "I love the aggression and fire in his face. When it counted, he produced."

DR Congo brought romance to this tournament, a team that united a war-torn nation, and they led after a Brian Cipenga goal in the seventh minute. They were ready to achieve something absolutely extraordinary.

Media verdict

British and Polish outlets described England’s performance as laboured, sparing only Kane. The Guardian wrote that Tuchel’s team "flirted with disaster," while the Daily Mail labelled DR Congo "minnows" and noted the match "threatened to end in humiliating elimination." Several commentators remarked that without their captain, England would already be out. Controversy also arose in the first half when Kane was shown a yellow card for simulation, a decision confirmed by VAR.

Next challenge

England advance to the round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico at Estadio Azteca on 6 July. The opponents and the venue are likely to demand a sharper performance after the narrow escape in Atlanta.