In a thrilling encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, England narrowly escaped a major upset against DR Congo, winning 2-1 in Atlanta. The match showcased a tactical masterclass from the Congolese side, who initially stunned the Three Lions with an early goal from Brian Cipenga.

England's Struggles and Tactical Adjustments

Despite England's eventual victory, the performance raised concerns about their effectiveness. Thomas Tuchel's team struggled to find their rhythm against a well-organized DR Congo, who executed their game plan with discipline and precision. England's attacking fluidity was restored following the introduction of Anthony Gordon, whose two assists proved crucial in turning the tide of the match.

Kane's Heroics and Milestones

Harry Kane emerged as the hero for England, scoring both goals that secured the comeback. With these two late strikes, Kane not only salvaged the match but also made history by surpassing Pelé in the all-time World Cup scoring charts, bringing his total to 13 goals in the tournament.

While England advanced to the Round of 16 to face co-hosts Mexico, the match highlighted vulnerabilities in their game, particularly in maintaining control when out of possession. DR Congo's effective build-up play and compact defense exposed these weaknesses, making for a tense and competitive fixture.