Harry Kane brace sends England past DR Congo into round of 16
Quick summary
Harry Kane scored twice in the second half to fire England to a victory over DR Congo in Atlanta, securing passage to the round of 16.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceEngland 2-1 DR Congo Goals: 0-1 Cipenga 7’ (assist: Mbemba), 1-1 Kane 75’ (assist: Gordon), 2-1 Kane 86’ (assist: Gordon)
Thomas Tuchel's England entered this FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium as clear favourites, having topped Group L with wins over Croatia (4-2) and Panama (2-0) alongside a goalless draw against Ghana. DR Congo, meanwhile, qualified as one of the tournament's best third-placed sides after a dramatic 3-1 comeback victory over Uzbekistan.
Tuchel was forced into changes, with Bayer Leverkusen 's Jarell Quansah ruled out through an injury he sustained against Panama, and Reece James also unavailable, meaning Djed Spence received the nod to start at right-back. England lined up in their trademark 4-2-3-1 formation, with Bayern Munich 's Kane once again both captaining and leading the line for the Three Lions.
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What happened
England advanced to the round of 16 with a win over DR Congo, powered by a second-half brace from captain Harry Kane. The Bayern Munich striker turned the match after the break, with Jude Bellingham and Anthony Gordon also involved in the England effort. The victory sets up a knockout-stage match for England, continuing their positive tournament trajectory. The game was played in Atlanta as part of the competition's expanded 32-team format.
Chance analysis
Kane's brace reinforces his status as England's go-to goalscorer and his strong form heading into the knockout rounds, which is relevant for Bayern Munich as it confirms the fitness and sharpness of their star striker. England's progression adds further context to their tournament credentials and Bellingham's growing influence. From a prediction standpoint, England's attacking depth looks healthy going into the next round.
England gain momentum and confidence heading into the round of 16, with Kane's goalscoring form a major positive for the team's attacking outlook.
England's attack, led by an in-form Kane, looks sharp going into the round of 16; favor England in next knockout match.