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Harry Kane Brace Rescues England in 2-1 Win Over DR Congo
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Harry Kane Brace Rescues England in 2-1 Win Over DR Congo

July 2, 2026 By BeatzHive Editorial 2 min read

Harry Kane’s Late Brace Rescues England From DR Congo Upset at 2026 World Cup

England survived a major scare at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after captain Harry Kane came off the bench — figuratively speaking — to net two goals in the closing stages and seal a hard-fought 2-1 victory over a resilient DR Congo side. The dramatic turnaround unfolded at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with Kane’s decisive contributions arriving in the 75th and 86th minutes to spare England’s blushes.

How It Unfolded

DR Congo drew first blood as early as the seventh minute, courtesy of a well-worked move that began with Chancel Mbemba winning the ball in his own half, driving forward, and threading a low cross into the box. Brian Cipenga read the delivery brilliantly, ghosting between England’s defenders to slot a composed finish past goalkeeper Jordan Pickford — a goal that sent shockwaves through the English support inside the stadium.

England dominated possession for the bulk of the contest but were repeatedly denied by a disciplined Congolese defensive structure. Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was outstanding, making a string of close-range saves and commanding his penalty area with authority. A penalty appeal from Kane was waved off by the referee and upheld by VAR, adding to the frustration of England manager Thomas Tuchel. Defensive cover was also stretched, with Djed Spence filling in at right-back following injuries to both Reece James and Jarell Quansah.

The turning point came in the 60th minute when Tuchel introduced Anthony Gordon. The winger’s pace and directness immediately gave England a new dimension down the flanks, exposing a DR Congo backline that had begun to tire.

Kane Makes History

Gordon’s influence proved decisive for both goals. His first dangerous cross from the left in the 75th minute was met by Kane, who timed his run to perfection and powered a downward header beyond Mpasi to level the scores. Eleven minutes later, Gordon delivered again from a recycled corner, and Kane reacted quickest in a crowded area to swivel and fire a fierce effort into the top-right corner, completing the comeback.

The brace elevated Kane to 13 career World Cup goals, reportedly moving him past Pelé in the all-time scoring charts and drawing him level with Erling Haaland atop the Golden Boot standings on five goals. England will next face co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16 at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday, while DR Congo bow out of the tournament having pushed one of the competition’s favourites to the very brink of elimination.

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