England 2-1 Congo DR (Jul 1, 2026) Game Analysis - ESPN

Harry Kane’s brace helped England avoid a World Cup exit after conceding first, sending Thomas Tuchel’s side into the round of 32 against Mexico. Brian Cipenga’s early strike put England under immediate pressure at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, where the team looked vulnerable for long stretches. England struggled to find consistent attacking rhythm and had difficulty breaking down Congo DR, whose goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced multiple key saves, including three stops against Jude Bellingham before halftime. Kane equalized with a header and scored again in the second half, with substitute Anthony Gordon twice setting up the comeback. The match also featured penalty appeals and a moment in which Wissa struck the frame and Kane was denied after Mpasi contacted him. England will face co-host Mexico at the Azteca next in the round of 16 on Sunday, following their first World Cup win after conceding since the 1966 final.