England secured their place in the World Cup last 16 after a challenging encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Atlanta. Harry Kane scored two late goals, turning the tide after Brian Cipenga had given DR Congo an early lead. The match concluded with a 2-1 victory for England, preventing what could have been a significant upset.
The win means Thomas Tuchel‘s side will now face co-hosts Mexico in the last 16 at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday. England‘s performance, particularly in the first half, drew scrutiny, with some players struggling to contain DR Congo‘s attacks.
First Half Struggles and Congolese Lead
DR Congo took an early lead when Brian Cipenga scored, beating Jordan Pickford at his near post. This goal came after Djed Spence was caught in an awkward position, failing to connect with a header and leaving too much space to cover. The goal silenced the majority of the nearly 70,000-strong crowd, largely composed of England supporters.
England‘s defence, featuring Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi, appeared vulnerable, allowing significant space for the opposition. Nico O’Reilly, at left-back, also faced a demanding night. Midfielder Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice were tasked with covering large areas, contributing to an open midfield.
Frustration was evident among the England players, with Jude Bellingham receiving a yellow card for a late challenge and engaging in a heated exchange with coach Thomas Tuchel during a hydration break. Despite efforts from Bellingham, whose powerful headers were saved by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, and Marcus Rashford, whose shot was blocked on the line, England could not find an equaliser before halftime.
DR Congo had an opportunity to extend their lead when Yoane Wissa, who had scored three goals in the group stage, hit the outside of the post from close range. Mpasi continued to impress, making several crucial saves, including denying Kane from a corner just before the break.
Second Half Comeback and Kane’s Decisive Goals
After a bright start to the second half, England initially struggled to break down DR Congo‘s defence. Thomas Tuchel introduced attacking players Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon, and Eberechi Eze from the bench to inject new energy into the team’s offence.
The substitutions proved effective. New Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon provided the cross for Harry Kane‘s first goal, a downward header that finally beat Mpasi with approximately 15 minutes remaining. This goal brought England level in the match.
Gordon was also instrumental in England‘s winning goal in the 86th minute, assisting Kane once more. Kane secured the victory with a powerful drive into the top of the net, marking his 84th international goal. This brace brought Kane‘s total World Cup goals to 13 and his tournament tally to five, placing him in contention for the Golden Boot.
The defeat ended DR Congo‘s journey in the World Cup, their first appearance in 52 years. They had not previously earned a point or scored a goal in the competition until this tournament. England will now prepare for their last 16 match against Mexico.
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Source: dawn.com
