England booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after coming from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in their Round of 32 clash on Wednesday.
The Three Lions will now face co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16 after Harry Kane scored twice to complete a dramatic comeback.
DR Congo made the perfect start, taking the lead just seven minutes into the match through Brian Sibenja, whose powerful low strike beat Jordan Pickford.
The goal became the second-fastest scored by an African nation in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, behind Kevin-Prince Boateng's strike for Ghana against the United States in 2010.
The African side nearly doubled its advantage before halftime, but Yoane Wissa's effort struck the post.
Goalkeeper Lionel Mbasi also produced several outstanding saves to preserve DR Congo's lead heading into the break.
England improved significantly after halftime and finally found the breakthrough in the 75th minute when Kane equalized.
The Bayern Munich striker completed the turnaround 11 minutes later, scoring his second goal of the match in the 86th minute to seal a 2-1 victory for Gareth Southgate's side.
England will now meet Mexico in the Round of 16 as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.




