Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes as England rallied from an early deficit to defeat the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 on Wednesday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, securing a place in the FIFA World Cup round of 16 after surviving one of its toughest tests of the tournament. The Congolese side, playing in its first-ever World Cup knockout stage match, stunned the favorites early when winger Brian Cipenga capitalized on an opening in the seventh minute. Cipenga controlled a cross from Chancel Mbemba on the left side of the penalty area and drove a low right-footed effort past England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford at the near post. DR Congo nearly doubled its advantage before the intermission, but forward Yoane Wissa saw his close-range effort bounce off the woodwork. England’s tactical adjustments after the break proved decisive, particularly the inclusion of substitute Anthony Gordon, who provided both assists for the turnaround. The equalizer came in the 75th minute when Gordon floated a cross from the left wing, allowing Kane to shake off his marker and direct a header past Congolese goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. With extra time approaching, Kane struck again in the 86th minute to seal the victory.…
Source: LV Sports
