Kane double sends England past DR Congo and into Mexico last-16 tie

England are through to the World Cup last 16 after a 2-1 comeback win over DR Congo, decided by two late Harry Kane goals. Brian Cipenga had put DR Congo ahead in the seventh minute, but Kane levelled from Anthony Gordon’s delivery before striking the winner in the 86th minute.

The result ends DR Congo’s first World Cup knockout match in defeat, but they made England work hard at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Lionel Mpasi produced several important saves, Marcus Rashford was denied by a goal-line clearance from Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Yoane Wissa hit the post before England finally broke through.

For Thomas Tuchel’s side, the relief of progression comes with clear questions. The early goal exposed defensive uncertainty, and the right-back issue remains a talking point after Djed Spence’s difficult match and Declan Rice’s later shift into that area.

Kane’s impact was the decisive story. The report’s statistical notes say he moved beyond Pele’s World Cup total with 13 goals and became the first England player since Gary Lineker in 1990 to score twice in a World Cup knockout match. England now move on to face co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, with that tie listed for Monday at 1am BST.