England narrowly avoided a major upset, defeating the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 in Atlanta to advance to the World Cup last 16. Harry Kane scored twice, including an 86th-minute winner, to spare Thomas Tuchel's side from what could have been one of the biggest shocks in tournament history.
DR Congo's fearless start rattles England
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) took the game to England from the first whistle, displaying fearless counterpressing and intricate passing combinations. In the seventh minute, Chancel Mbemba switched play from right to left, catching England's defense out of position. Noah Sadiki's run dragged Djed Spence across, while Ezri Konsa was drawn to Yoane Wissa, leaving Brian Cipenga with time to drill a low shot inside Jordan Pickford's near post.
The goal exposed England's defensive frailties. Noni Madueke had stayed high, leaving Spence exposed, and the DRC nearly doubled their lead when Aaron Wan-Bissaka crossed for Wissa to hit a post. England looked disjointed, with Jude Bellingham shouting at the bench and earning a booking for a clumsy challenge. Reece James had to calm Bellingham during a hydration break, while Declan Rice raged after the goal.
Tuchel's tactical tweaks turn the tide
With 20 minutes remaining, Tuchel made decisive changes. He had already replaced wingers Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford with Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon. Now he went for broke: Djed Spence was substituted after a poor display, Declan Rice shifted to right-back, and Eberechi Eze was introduced to add unpredictability in the final third.
The equalizer came five minutes later. Eze combined with Rice, whose cross from the byline found Gordon. Gordon then laid the ball back for Kane to head past Lionel Mpasi, who had been in inspired form. Kane's winner arrived in the 86th minute after another Gordon assist, with the forward bashing the ball home to complete the comeback.
Concerns persist ahead of Mexico clash
Despite the victory, England's performance raised serious questions. The DRC's early dominance and England's defensive lapses were alarming. Rice looked unfit, the defense remained shaky, and Spence failed to impress at right-back. With Tino Livramento sent home, Jarell Quansah injured, and James nursing a hamstring tweak, options are limited.
Tuchel's side has yet to produce a complete performance in four matches, save for a thrilling surge against Croatia. The team has appeared tired, fractious, and unbalanced. Much depends on Kane and Bellingham, but Rashford's poor display—including wayward crosses that drew boos—suggests changes are needed.
England now face a pumped-up Mexico at the Azteca on Sunday. If they play as they did against the DRC, they risk being overrun in the cauldron of Mexico City. Tuchel must find solutions quickly to avoid an early exit.
