FIFA World Cup 2026 Harry Kane once again proved why he is one of football’s greatest strikers, scoring a dramatic late brace as England came from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. Kane’s heroics not only saved England from a shock exit but also saw him break another remarkable World Cup record.
DR Congo Shock England Early
England entered the Round of 32 clash as overwhelming favourites, but DR Congo had other ideas.
The African side stunned the Three Lions in the seventh minute when Brian Cipenga found the back of the net after England’s defence failed to clear the danger. The early goal silenced England supporters and threatened one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.
DR Congo defended brilliantly and nearly doubled their lead before halftime, while England struggled to create clear-cut chances despite dominating possession.
Harry Kane Comes to England’s Rescue
As the match entered its final stages, England desperately needed inspiration.
That inspiration came from captain Harry Kane.
In the 75th minute, Anthony Gordon delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area, and Kane rose highest to power a header past goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi to level the score at 1-1.
Just eleven minutes later, Kane struck again.
Receiving a perfectly weighted pass from Gordon, the England captain unleashed a stunning first-time finish that flew into the net and completed an incredible comeback. The goal sparked wild celebrations among England players and supporters.
Kane Breaks Another World Cup Record
Kane’s brace took his World Cup tally to 13 goals, moving him past Brazilian legend Pelé and placing him among the highest scorers in FIFA World Cup history.
The England captain also continued his remarkable goalscoring season.
According to reports, Kane has now scored 72 goals for club and country during the 2025-26 campaign, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo’s best-ever goalscoring season and trailing only Lionel Messi’s record-breaking 82-goal campaign from 2011-12.
His latest goals further strengthened his status as England’s greatest-ever striker and one of the finest forwards of his generation.
England Reach the Round of 16
The victory secured England’s place in the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico.
England became only the second team in their World Cup history to win a knockout match after conceding the opening goal, underlining the resilience shown by Thomas Tuchel’s side.
Although the performance exposed several weaknesses, England’s ability to fight back under pressure could prove invaluable as the tournament progresses.
Anthony Gordon’s Impact Changes the Match
While Kane deserved the headlines, Anthony Gordon also played a crucial role in England’s victory.
Introduced during the second half, the winger transformed England’s attack with his energy and direct running. He provided both assists for Kane’s goals and changed the momentum of the game entirely.
His performance has strengthened his case for a starting place in England’s next match.
Can England Go All the Way?
England’s journey remains alive, but tougher tests await.
The Three Lions possess world-class talent in every area of the pitch, including Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, and, of course, Harry Kane. However, their display against DR Congo highlighted concerns regarding creativity and defensive concentration.
To challenge for the World Cup trophy, England will need more consistent performances.
Fortunately for them, they have a captain who repeatedly delivers when it matters most.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which World Cup record did Harry Kane break?
Harry Kane surpassed Brazilian legend Pelé’s tally of 12 FIFA World Cup goals by scoring his 13th World Cup goal during England’s comeback win over DR Congo.
How many goals has Harry Kane scored at FIFA World Cup 2026?
Kane has scored five goals at FIFA World Cup 2026 and is firmly in contention for the Golden Boot.
How did England qualify for the Round of 16?
England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta. Kane scored both goals in the final 15 minutes after Brian Cipenga had given DR Congo an early lead.
Who will England play next?
England will face co-host Mexico in the Round of 16 at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Is Harry Kane leading the Golden Boot race?
Not yet. Kane’s five goals leave him one goal behind leaders Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé, who have six goals each.
Can England win the FIFA World Cup 2026?
England remain among the contenders, but their performance against DR Congo showed that they must improve defensively and create chances more consistently if they want to challenge for the trophy.
Conclusion
Harry Kane once again wrote his name into football history, scoring twice to rescue England from the brink of elimination and guide the Three Lions into the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16.
His record-breaking night further cemented his legacy as one of the greatest World Cup strikers of all time. With Kane leading the way and confidence growing within the squad, England’s dream of lifting the World Cup trophy remains very much alive.