England avoided a major World Cup embarrassment in Atlanta as Harry Kane struck twice late on to drag Thomas Tuchel’s side to a dramatic comeback victory over DR Congo.
For much of the contest, England looked in serious trouble. DR Congo took an early lead through Brian Cipenga and then defended with discipline, courage and belief. With only 15 minutes left, England were staring at a result that would have gone down as one of the darkest moments in their World Cup history.
Once again, Kane became the difference maker.
The England captain levelled the match in the 75th minute with a powerful header from Anthony Gordon’s delivery, finally beating DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who had produced an outstanding performance. Mpasi had already denied Jude Bellingham and Kane with excellent saves, keeping England frustrated for long spells.
Kane then completed the turnaround four minutes from time with a brilliant individual finish. Collecting the ball near the edge of the area, he turned away from pressure, drove forward and fired a fierce right footed strike high past Mpasi. It was his fifth goal of the tournament and another reminder of his importance to this England team.
Gordon also deserves credit after coming off the bench and making a clear impact. The Newcastle winger had experienced a quiet campaign before this match, but his energy and delivery helped change the direction of the game.
DR Congo will look back at a huge missed opportunity just before half time. Yoane Wissa struck the post when he seemed certain to score, a moment that could have given his side a two goal advantage and left England with an even bigger mountain to climb.
Although England survived, the performance raised serious concerns. Tuchel’s side looked disjointed in defence, lacked control for long periods and struggled to produce the quality expected from a team with such attacking talent. The late victory keeps their campaign alive, but it does not erase the problems shown in Atlanta.
England now move on to face Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, a venue loaded with World Cup history for English football after the famous 1986 quarter final defeat to Diego Maradona’s Argentina. Playing at altitude in front of a passionate Mexican crowd will bring another major test.
Kane saved England this time, but if they repeat this level of performance, their World Cup journey may not last much longer.
