England rallies from deficit to advance in World Cup as Kane scores crucial double
England came from behind Wednesday to beat Congo DR in World Cup group play, with striker Harry Kane scoring twice in the final 11 minutes to salvage their passage to the knockout round where Mexico awaits. The dramatic comeback prevented an embarrassing early exit.
Dramatic Comeback
England were stunned when Congo DR sliced open their defence as Brian Cipenga raced into space, beating Jordan Pickford at the near post to to squeeze in his seventh-minute opener. The Three Lions were on course for an almighty embarrassment, trailing 15 minutes from time, but Kane came clutch again, scoring an 11-minute double to salvage their spot in the round of 16, where Mexico await.
Tournament Highlights
Elsewhere, Belgium spared their own humiliation, as a spirited Senegal side were seemingly cruising with a 2-0 lead until the 85th minute. But Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans hauled Belgium level in a dramatic three-minute burst to force extra time. Senegal were by far the better side but watched their World Cup hopes dwindle when Belgium were awarded a controversial penalty, dispatched coolly by Tielemans in the 125th minute to complete the turnaround.
Knockout Stage
Spain take on Austria in a decisive knockout clash, with the winner facing either Portugal or Croatia in the round of 16. England's narrow escape demonstrates how tightly matched many teams are at the 2026 World Cup, with the tournament producing numerous upsets and dramatic comebacks.
Tournament Context
The 2026 World Cup has already seen historic goal-scoring records and unexpected results as smaller nations continue to challenge traditional powerhouses. Kane's crucial performance for England underscores the importance of experienced strikers in knockout competitions, where single matches determine advancement.