Harry Kane rescues England against DR Congo to set up Mexico World Cup clash

Harry Kane produced another captain's performance to keep England's World Cup hopes alive, scoring twice as Thomas Tuchel's side fought back from a goal down to defeat DR Congo and reach the last 16.

England looked on course for one of the most shocking eliminations in their tournament history after Brian Cipenga's first-half strike gave the African side a deserved lead in Atlanta. But Kane's clinical second-half brace completed the turnaround and secured a blockbuster meeting with Mexico in the next round.

DR Congo arrived at the knockout stage full of belief after impressing throughout the group phase, and they showed no signs of being overawed against one of the tournament favourites.

Sebastien Desabre's side defended with discipline and threatened on the break, taking the lead when Cipenga escaped his marker before firing beyond Jordan Pickford.

England struggled to recover from the setback. Their passing became increasingly rushed, frustration grew, and Jude Bellingham was booked after a rash challenge as Tuchel's side searched desperately for a way back into the contest.

Despite controlling possession, England repeatedly found themselves frustrated by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who produced a series of outstanding saves to preserve DR Congo's advantage for more than an hour.

With time running out, England's captain once again proved decisive.

Anthony Gordon, introduced from the bench, changed the tempo of England's attack with his direct running and quality delivery. His clipped cross found Kane, who powered a header beyond Mpasi to finally break DR Congo's resistance.

The winner highlighted why Kane remains one of world football's elite forwards. Receiving the ball with his back to goal, he spun away from his marker, created just enough space and drilled an unstoppable finish into the corner to complete England's comeback.

The goals also saw Kane move ahead of Pelé on the all-time World Cup scoring list, adding another remarkable milestone to an already extraordinary international career.

England created chances throughout the evening but lacked composure in front of goal until their captain stepped forward. His leadership was evident long before his goals, constantly encouraging teammates and refusing to let standards drop despite the growing pressure.

Anthony Gordon's introduction transformed England's left side. His pace and willingness to attack immediately stretched DR Congo's defence, and both of Kane's goals came from the Newcastle winger's assists.

The tactical switch provided the width and urgency England had been missing for much of the contest.

While England progressed, there will be questions about the opening goal they conceded. Cipenga found far too much space inside the penalty area after confusion in England's defensive shape, exposing vulnerabilities stronger opponents may punish.

Having followed England throughout this tournament, defensive concentration has occasionally dipped despite otherwise solid performances. Against Mexico, those moments are likely to be punished more severely if repeated.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions, with Tuchel's side still finding ways to win under pressure.

England now travel to Mexico City for one of the standout fixtures of the World Cup round of 16, where they will face Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium.

The victory over DR Congo keeps alive England's hopes of ending their long wait for World Cup glory, but Tuchel will know significant improvements will be required. Mexico have looked one of the tournament's most balanced teams and will present a far greater attacking threat than England experienced for much of the group stage.

The coming days will also allow Tuchel to assess his squad's fitness before selecting his side for what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the competition so far.

Can England build on this dramatic comeback, or will Mexico end their World Cup dream in the last 16?