England Stages Dramatic Comeback to Beat Congo 2-1 in World Cup Round of 32

In a tense and nerve-wracking Round of 32 match at the 2026 World Cup in Atlanta, England overcame an early shock to defeat the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1. Congo stunned the Three Lions just seven minutes in when Brian Sifenga scored his first international goal, capitalizing on a precise cross from Chancel Mbemba to put Congo ahead. England appeared disoriented in the opening stages but gradually grew into the game, despite facing a resilient Congo goalkeeper, Lionel Mpasi, who made several crucial saves against Marcus Rashford, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane.

The breakthrough for England came in the 75th minute when substitute Anthony Gordon delivered a perfect cross for captain Harry Kane to head home the equalizer. The momentum shifted decisively, and in the 86th minute, after Bellingham’s initial shot was blocked, Gordon set up Kane again with a through ball, allowing Kane to score from the edge of the box and complete the comeback. This victory sends England into the Round of 16, where they will face Mexico. The match highlighted England’s resilience and Kane’s pivotal role in securing the win under pressure.