Tens of thousands of Londoners downed tools and headed to pubs, some joking they had “doctor’s appointments....with Dr Congo”, as England faced a shock World Cup exit in Atlanta. The Three Lions were staring down the barrel after Brian Cipenga put DR Congo ahead in the seventh minute, the first shot of the game finding the net. A penalty shout was turned down, and chances for Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford came and went, frustration building.
It took until the 75th minute for England to draw level. Harry Kane headed past Lionel Mpase to make it 1-1. With four minutes of normal time remaining, Kane struck again, a brilliant goal to complete the turnaround. It was the first time England have come from behind to win a World Cup knockout match since 1966.
“Harry Kane scored two late goals as England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 and reach the World Cup last 16.”
Speaking to the BBC after his heroics, Kane said: “It feel amazing to be honest, what a crazy game against a tough team, organised team. After that first hydration break, I thought we upped the level. Their keeper made some amazing saves. It was about... keep pounding the rock. Just keep pounding the rock. When you get to knockout football, the pressure is higher, the risk is higher. From an attacking point of view, it was probably our best game of the tournament so far.”
Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel said: “We kept believing. We had the worst start possible. First shot, first goal. Then, it bec...” The quote was cut short in the original report, but his sentiment echoed the relief felt across the capital, where scenes of wild celebration erupted after the final whistle.
England now face co-hosts Mexico in the last-16 at the iconic Azteca Stadium, a 1am kick-off on Monday. Should they win, a quarter-final against Brazil or Norway awaits on Saturday at 10pm. A potential semi-final is set for Wednesday 15 July at 8pm, with the final on Sunday 19 July at 8pm at the New York, New Jersey Stadium.