Atlanta, 02 July (H.S.): Captain Harry Kane scored twice as England came from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash on Wednesday, securing a place in the Round of 16 after a fiercely contested encounter.

Despite being considered one of the tournament's strongest contenders, England had to battle until the closing stages to overcome a spirited DR Congo side.

DR Congo made an aggressive start and stunned England by taking the lead in the 17th minute. Defender Djed Spence failed to deal with a cross from the right, allowing Bryan Sipenga to fire home from close range and put his side 1-0 ahead.

England responded with sustained attacking pressure, but DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a series of impressive saves to preserve his team's advantage. Jude Bellingham's header and a close-range effort from Marcus Rashford were both denied before halftime.

England finally found the equaliser in the 75th minute when Kane headed home Anthony Gordon's pinpoint cross to make it 1-1.

The Three Lions continued to press for the winner, and Kane struck again in the 85th minute. After beating Axel Tuanzebe, the England captain unleashed a powerful right-footed shot into the roof of the net to give his side a decisive 2-1 lead.

DR Congo pushed for a late equaliser but could not find a breakthrough, allowing England to seal a hard-earned victory and advance to the Round of 16.

Despite the defeat, DR Congo earned widespread praise for a courageous performance, pushing one of the tournament favourites to the limit.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar