Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes to snatch a 2-1 win over DR Congo, keeping England's World Cup 2026 dream alive and setting up a last-16 clash with co-hosts Mexico. The match, played in Atlanta, saw England fall behind after just seven minutes when Brian Cipenga fired past Jordan Pickford at his near post. For 75 minutes, England struggled to break down a disciplined DR Congo side, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi making several outstanding saves. But Kane equalised with a header from an Anthony Gordon cross and then scored a brilliant solo goal, turning and firing into the roof of the net. The victory ensures England progress to the knockout stages, where they will face Mexico at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
The World Cup knockout rounds are a single-elimination phase where each match is win or go home. England, as Group C runners-up, were drawn against Group D winners Mexico. This format has been used since the tournament's inception, with the last 16 being the first knockout round. For England, reaching the last 16 is a minimum expectation given their squad depth and recent performances. Manager Thomas Tuchel has faced criticism for the team's inconsistent displays, but Kane's leadership has been crucial. The win over DR Congo was England's third in the group stage, but they have yet to convince with their performances, particularly in defence. Ezri Konsa and Djed Spence had difficult games, while Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice were among the better performers.
“England beat DR Congo 2-1 to set up a World Cup last-16 match against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.”
For UK readers, this match matters because England's progress in the World Cup generates huge national interest. A victory against Mexico would set up a quarter-final against either the Netherlands or the USA. The match will be broadcast live on UK television, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm BST on Saturday 4 July 2026. Mexico, as co-hosts, will have strong home support at the iconic Estadio Azteca, where they have historically been formidable. England have a mixed record against Mexico, winning three of their last five meetings. Key players to watch include Kane, who now has 73 international goals, and Mexico's star striker Raúl Jiménez. The match promises to be a tight contest, with both teams possessing attacking threats but defensive vulnerabilities.
Q: Who will England face in the World Cup last 16? England will face Mexico in the last 16 after Mexico won Group D. The match will be played at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Q: When is the England vs Mexico World Cup last-16 match? The match is scheduled for Saturday 4 July 2026, with kick-off at 8pm BST. It will be broadcast live on BBC and ITV in the UK.
Q: What are England's chances of beating Mexico? England are slight favourites based on world ranking, but Mexico have home advantage and a strong tournament record. England's performance against DR Congo raised defensive concerns, but Kane's form gives them a chance. The match is expected to be close, with both teams capable of scoring.
What happens next? The England squad will travel to Mexico City to prepare for the last-16 tie. Thomas Tuchel is expected to make changes to the starting lineup, with Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon pushing for starts after impressive substitute appearances. The winner of England vs Mexico will face either the Netherlands or the USA in the quarter-finals. England have not won a knockout match at a major tournament since the 2022 World Cup, when they reached the quarter-finals.