Harry Kane scored a late double to rescue England from a shock defeat as they edged past Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 in the World Cup last 32. The captain's intervention spared the Three Lions from an embarrassing exit, with the DR Congo having taken a first-half lead through Brian Cipenga.
First-half struggles for England
England started poorly and fell behind in the first half. DR Congo's Chancel Mbemba played a brilliant pass to set up Cipenga, who took his goal superbly and landed a back-flip celebration. The Three Lions' defence looked disjointed, with Ezri Konsa enduring a nightmare, caught out for the opening goal and always panicked in possession. Jordan Pickford got a hand to Cipenga's strike but could have done better.
Marcus Rashford summed up England's awful start by miscontrolling the ball out of play, and his last contribution was a terrible cross. Noni Madueke lacked end product despite promising moments, while Declan Rice struggled to impose himself until moving to right-back and delivered poor set pieces.
Kane's late heroics
England's saviour yet again, Harry Kane scored twice in the closing stages to turn the game around. According to the player ratings, Kane was a 9/10, with the report stating: 'Where would Thomas Tuchel be without his captain? Probably out of a job.' Jude Bellingham played his part in the comeback, earning an 8/10 despite having three efforts saved by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
Substitutes proved crucial: Anthony Gordon, who is joining Barcelona next season according to the report, provided two assists off the bench and was also rated 9/10. Bukayo Saka, who replaced Madueke in the 60th minute, looked dangerous and has to start against Mexico, according to the analysis.
DR Congo's valiant effort
DR Congo's goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi made three brilliant saves in the first half and another from Bellingham, but he will be disappointed not to have stopped Kane's first goal. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, the Croydon-born right-back, produced a brilliant goalline clearance and was dangerous in attack, earning an 8/10. Axel Tuanzebe, Rashford's old school friend, was a towering presence in defence and made key blocks.
Ngal'ayel Mukau of Lille more than played his part in DR Congo's physical approach and looks to have a bright future. Noah Sadiki of Sunderland was everywhere, with the report noting that all the big Premier League clubs have been looking at him. Brian Cipenga, who scored the opening goal, was rated 8/10 for his performance.
Key moments and impact
Yoane Wissa had a golden chance to make it 2-0 in the first half but could not take it, a pivotal moment that proved costly for DR Congo. England's defence remained shaky throughout, with Djed Spence taking some blame for the goal and general confusion, and Nico O'Reilly making too many basic mistakes. Marc Guéhi was the only England defender who seemed comfortable on the ball, earning a 7/10, with the report suggesting it is time for a new partner.
Elliot Anderson found his rhythm in midfield and came close to scoring, while Eberechi Eze exerted his influence as England chased the game. John Stones came on late as England saw out the win. The victory sends England into the last 16, while DR Congo exit the tournament after a valiant display.
