Harry Kane delivered a stunning late brace as England edged past DR Congo 2-1, booking their place in the World Cup round of 16. The captain’s double didn’t just rescue a nervy performance. It also pushed him past Pele’s all-time World Cup goals record, taking his tally to 13.

Congo Stun England Before Kane Strikes Twice

DR Congo shocked the Three Lions early, taking the lead in the seventh minute through Brian Cipenga’s near-post finish. England struggled to break down a resilient Congolese defense for much of the contest, wasting several clear chances before halftime. Frustration built inside Atlanta Stadium as boos rained down at the break.

Everything changed after the hour mark. Substitute Anthony Gordon injected fresh energy, setting up both of Kane’s goals within an eleven-minute span. First came a towering header in the 75th minute, leveling the score and silencing the crowd’s unease. Then, ten minutes later, Kane collected Gordon’s pass and rifled home the winner, sending England through on a dramatic comeback.

Kane Rewrites History; Congo Leave With Pride

Kane’s second strike carried extra significance beyond the scoreline. It moved him to 13 career World Cup goals, surpassing Pele’s long-standing tally of 12. Few strikers in the tournament’s history have managed such consistency across multiple World Cups.

For DR Congo, elimination stings but shouldn’t overshadow the achievement. Reaching their first-ever knockout stage represents genuine progress for African football’s rising nations. Cipenga’s celebration after his opener became one of the tournament’s most memorable moments.

England now turn their attention to co-hosts Mexico in the next round, a daunting away assignment in Mexico City. Thomas Tuchel’s side will need defensive improvements, but with Kane in this kind of form, hope remains alive. Follow further World Cup coverage at KCPredict. Full match details are available via ESPN.