England were staring at World Cup elimination in Atlanta – until Harry Kane delivered a second-half rescue act that has fans demanding a knighthood.
Brian Cipenga had put DR Congo ahead after just seven minutes, leaving Thomas Tuchel’s side sluggish and struggling. Midway through the first half, Kane was denied a penalty when he appeared to be brought down by Lionel Mpasi, but referee Adham Makhadmeh awarded a free-kick to the African opponents for simulation.
“Harry Kane's second-half brace overturned DR Congo's lead, sending England to the World Cup last 16 against Mexico.”
That frustration evaporated in the closing stages. With 15 minutes left, Kane rose to nod a towering header home, then sealed the 2-1 win in the 86th minute with an absolute rocket from the middle of the area. The Bayern Munich marksman’s brace sent England into the last 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Monday, July 6.
In the aftermath, social media erupted. “We win this World Cup, give Harry Kane a knighthood IMMEDIATELY,” wrote one fan. Another joked: “They should make Harry Kane prime minister he seems more committed to the UK (England).” A fourth opined: “Hot Take: Harry Kane should win the Ballon d’or.”
Kane himself urged his teammates to savour the moment. “Still things to work on,” he told the BBC. “These rounds are about going through. This one and the next one, the next one, away in Mexico – against Mexico – we have to grind wins out. I told the boys to enjoy full time; sometimes as an England player, games you’re expected to win, you don’t celebrate as you should. We’re the same as every other nation, we’re through, but enjoy it – we’re at the World Cup.”
England’s defence remains a major concern, but for now, Kane’s heroics have silenced the doubters. The question is whether one man can carry the Three Lions all the way.