Kane's late double rescues England past DR Congo in World Cup round of 16

Harry Kane scored twice in the final stages to rescue England from a shock World Cup defeat, securing a 2-1 victory over the Democratic Republic of the Congo at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday.

Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo an early lead in the seventh minute when he received the ball on the left side and beat goalkeeper Jordan Pickford at his near post. England dominated possession thereafter but struggled to convert chances as DR Congo's goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi made several saves, including three on Jude Bellingham.

Kane struck in the 75th minute with a header, then added a second in the 86th minute with a right-footed shot into the roof of the net. The two goals in 11 minutes turned the match around and sent England through to face Mexico in the round of 16 on July 5 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

"For me it was an incredible feeling. What a crazy match. They are a tough, well-organized team," Kane said after the match. "After the first water break we stepped up the level and played well. Their goalkeeper made incredible saves in the first half. It was about pounding the rock. We have moments of heroes, for me it was today."

Kane has now scored five goals in the tournament, matching Erling Haaland's tally. Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi lead the scoring race with six goals each.

England head coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the difficulty of the match. "We faced many obstacles. The altitude will certainly be a great disadvantage, as it is impossible to adapt physically to it in just four days," Tuchel said regarding the upcoming fixture in Mexico City, which sits at 2,240 meters above sea level. "We are prepared for it, but surely more obstacles will emerge."

The victory marked England's advancement to the knockout stages after a tense encounter. DR Congo's performance drew praise for their organization and early intensity, though they ultimately fell short in the final stages. The match was played under the roof of Atlanta Stadium, shielding players from the city's heat and humidity.

England will now prepare to face Mexico, who have compiled a perfect 4-0 record in their four matches so far in the tournament, with three of those victories coming at home at Estadio Azteca. Ticket prices for the round-of-16 match start at $4,114 USD including fees on secondary markets, with 100-level seats beginning at $7,906 USD including fees.

After the final whistle, England's squad celebrated with supporters, singing "Wonderwall" by Oasis in the stadium.