Harry Kane's Late Goals Propel England to Historic Comeback Victory

In a thrilling World Cup match, Harry Kane's late goals propelled England to a stunning 2-1 comeback victory against the Democratic Republic of Congo. This win not only saved England from an early exit but also set multiple records, including the first time they won a knockout match after trailing at halftime. With Kane's remarkable performance, he now stands among the top scorers in World Cup history. As England prepares for their next challenge against Mexico, Kane is just one goal away from the Golden Boot race. Read on to discover more about this historic match and Kane's incredible achievements.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 2, 2026, 04:15 IST

Kane's Heroics Seal Dramatic Comeback

In a thrilling match, Captain Harry Kane shattered multiple international records as he led England to a remarkable 2-1 comeback win against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Round of 32 of the World Cup. His late brace was crucial in saving England from a potential early exit.

Kane wasted no time reflecting on the close call, quickly shifting focus to the next knockout match. After the game, he took to social media to express pride in the team's resilience, stating, "This is what it means. Got the job done. See you in Mexico," on X.

Shock Start and Second-Half Turnaround

The match began with a shocking twist as DR Congo took the lead just seven minutes in, with Brian Cipenga scoring his first international goal, catching the favorites off guard.

Throughout the first half, DR Congo's disciplined defense and pressing game stifled England's attempts to create scoring opportunities. Despite controlling possession, England struggled to break through, with Kane and Marcus Rashford facing relentless defending and strong saves from Congolese goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, allowing DR Congo to maintain a 1-0 lead at halftime.

The tide turned when England's coach Thomas Tuchel brought on Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka, adding much-needed pace to the attack. Gordon's presence was particularly impactful, forcing DR Congo back into their own half.

In the 75th minute, Kane equalized with a composed finish after a period of sustained pressure from England. Just 11 minutes later, he scored the winner, securing England's advancement to the Round of 16.

Record-Breaking Victory

This thrilling win marked several significant milestones for English football: it was the first time England won a FIFA World Cup match after trailing at halftime, and only the second instance of recovering from an early deficit to win a knockout match, the first being the 1966 Final against West Germany.

Additionally, England extended its unbeaten streak against CAF teams to 10 World Cup matches, the longest in tournament history.

Anthony Gordon made history as the first player since 1966 to provide two assists as a substitute in a World Cup knockout match.

Both Kane and Rashford made their 15th World Cup appearances, setting a record for the most by any England men's outfield players.

Kane's Personal Milestones

Kane's two goals not only kept England's World Cup hopes alive but also elevated his status in football history. With 13 career World Cup goals, he has surpassed Pele and is now tied with French legend Just Fontaine, ranking joint-sixth on the all-time scoring list.

Moreover, he is the first England player to score five or more goals in two different World Cups.

Cipenga's early goal was the fastest conceded by England in a World Cup knockout match since Gabriel Batistuta's sixth-minute strike for Argentina in 1998, but Kane's brilliance ensured England's journey continues.

As the team prepares for their Round of 16 match against Mexico, Kane is just one goal shy of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot.