World Cup 2026: Kane’s double ends the Leopards’ campaign

DR Congo’s World Cup ended in Atlanta on 1 July with a 2-1 defeat by England in the round of 32. Brian Cipenga put the Leopards ahead before Harry Kane scored in the 75th and 86th minutes. Their first knockout match in this competition therefore ended with a late reversal.

Cipenga gave Congo the lead in the seventh minute. England Football’s report describes the forward meeting a delivery from Chancel Mbemba and beating Jordan Pickford with a low shot. That goal allowed the Congolese side to reach half-time with a 1-0 advantage.

Lionel Mpasi played an important part in preserving the lead. England Football and PA describe interventions against Jude Bellingham and Kane, as well as Aaron Wan-Bissaka blocking a Marcus Rashford shot. Congo also threatened at the other end, with Yoane Wissa striking the post before the interval.

Anthony Gordon’s introduction in the 61st minute preceded England’s turnaround. Kane headed in his cross to equalise in the 75th minute, then scored the decisive goal with a shot in the 86th. PA credits Gordon with both assists; FIFA’s individual data confirms the England captain’s two goals.

FIFA’s match-summary table records sixteen England attempts, seven on target, against Congo’s seven attempts and two on target. It estimates expected goals at 1.75 for England and 0.64 for the Leopards. Those figures describe England’s advantage in chances without removing the significance of Congo’s long spell in front.

Congo leave the tournament after drawing with Portugal, losing to Colombia and beating Uzbekistan in the group stage. England advance to a round-of-16 meeting with Mexico. For the Leopards, the qualification secured in Atlanta has not translated into a second knockout tie.