Harry Kane saves England with late brace in World Cup comeback against DR Congo
By Simon Peach, Press Association Chief Football Writer, Atlanta
Harry Kane’s brace saved England from World Cup humiliation as Thomas Tuchel’s men survived an almighty scare against the Democratic Republic of Congo to set up a mouth-watering clash with co-hosts Mexico.
A decade on from the humiliating Euros exit to Iceland, history threatened to repeat itself as Brian Cipenga’s early strike meant they faced the prospect of falling at the first knockout hurdle to unfancied opposition.
England stumbled for large periods and struggled to beat inspired DC Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, but Tuchel’s men kept their cool – and at times rode their luck – as Kane’s second-half double completed a 2-1 comeback win in the round of 32.
This was the first time they had won a World Cup match after conceding first since the 1966 final and Wednesday’s rocky display raises huge questions as to whether they can make it past Mexico, never mind reach the final.
DR Congo, playing in the first ever knockout match on this stage, all too easily exposed England’s defence and Yoane Wissa hit the goal frame towards the end of a half when Kane felt he was wrongly denied a penalty.
Tension and audible frustration grew as the second half wore on, only for substitute Anthony Gordon to twice set up his captain to secure a comeback win and last-16 date with Mexico at the Azteca.
