DR Congo’s Historic World Cup Run Ends with Loss to England

West Africa WeeklyJuly 3, 20261 Mins read287

Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes as England came from behind to defeat the Democratic Republic of Congo 2-1 in a dramatic Round of 32 clash at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, sending the Leopards crashing out of the 2026 World Cup.

DR Congo, appearing in the knockout phase for the first time in their history, stunned the Three Lions inside the opening 10 minutes. Brian Cipenga collected a cross from the left flank before firing a low shot past England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford at the near post in the 7th minute to give the African side a shock lead.

The Congolese nearly doubled their advantage before halftime when Yoane Wissa broke free and struck the post in the 42nd minute, a moment that would prove costly. Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a series of outstanding saves, denying Jude Bellingham on multiple occasions to preserve DR Congo’s slender lead.

England manager Thomas Tuchel introduced substitutes Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon in the second half, a move that shifted the momentum decisively. In the 75th minute, Gordon delivered a cross from the left and Kane rose to head past Mpasi, bringing the scores level. Eleven minutes later, Kane completed the comeback with a stunning strike into the top corner after collecting a pass from Gordon.

DR Congo had one final opportunity deep into stoppage time, but Wissa’s powerful free-kick drifted narrowly over the crossbar as England held on to book their place in the next round. The result extends England’s World Cup run and sets up a last-16 clash against co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. For DR Congo, the tournament ends in heartbreak, but their courageous performance against one of the favourites will not soon be forgotten.