Harry Kane's Stunning Brace Sends England into World Cup Last 16, Surpasses Pelé's Goal Record

England kept their World Cup dream alive with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Congo DR, inspired by a sensational late brace from captain Harry Kane that also saw him move past Pelé on the all-time World Cup scoring charts.

The Three Lions looked destined for a shock group-stage exit after Congo DR stunned the European side with an early opener. Brian Cipenga fired the African nation ahead in the seventh minute, finishing confidently past Jordan Pickford after breaking into England's penalty area.

England struggled to find a response during a frustrating first half despite creating several opportunities. Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford both came close, but Congo DR goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a series of outstanding saves, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka made a crucial goal-line clearance to preserve his side's advantage.

Thomas Tuchel's men were fortunate not to fall further behind as Yoane Wissa struck the post with a powerful effort before halftime, exposing England's defensive vulnerabilities.

As the clock ticked down, England desperately searched for an equalizer. Kane believed he had earned a penalty after going down inside the area, but the referee waved away the appeals.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 75th minute when Kane found the back of the net, breathing new life into England's campaign. The goal also brought him level with Brazilian icon Pelé on 12 career World Cup goals.

The England captain wasn't finished.

Just minutes later, Kane struck again with a clinical finish to complete the comeback, secure a 2-1 victory, and move ahead of Pelé on the tournament's all-time scoring list.

Kane Continues to Rewrite History

The Bayern Munich striker continues to cement his place among football's greatest international forwards. After recently surpassing Gary Lineker as England's highest World Cup scorer, Kane has now added another remarkable milestone by overtaking Pelé's World Cup goal tally.

The two goals also lifted Kane to five goals in the current tournament, placing him just one behind Golden Boot leader Lionel Messi.

Kane now boasts 20 goals in major international tournaments for England and remains the nation's all-time leading scorer with 84 goals in 117 appearances.

England Set for Mexico Clash

England's dramatic victory secures their place in the Round of 16, where they will face tournament co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca on July 5.

Speaking after the match, Kane praised his teammates' determination.

"It feels amazing. What a crazy game. Their goalkeeper made some unbelievable saves, but we kept believing. We spoke about having hero moments, and today it was my turn."

The captain also encouraged his teammates to celebrate the hard-fought victory before quickly turning their attention to the knockout stage.

"We're through, and that's what matters. We're fighting for the World Cup, and every moment counts. We'll enjoy tonight with the fans and then focus on the next challenge."

 

Match Summary

FIFA World Cup

England 2-1 Congo DR

Scorers:

• Brian Cipenga (Congo DR, 7')
• Harry Kane (England, 75', 86')

Player of the Match: Harry Kane

England's resilience and Kane's clinical finishing ensured the Three Lions avoided one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, keeping their World Cup ambitions alive as they prepare for a blockbuster Round of 16 encounter against Mexico.