Atlanta, July 01 (QNA) - England national football team advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the DR Congo national football team 2-1 today in their Round of 32 match at Atlanta Stadium.

England owed their victory to the brilliance of Harry Kane, who scored twice in the 75th and 86th minutes, while Brian Cipenga scored DR Congo's only goal in the seventh minute.

With the win, England will face Mexico national football team in the Round of 16 after Mexico eliminated Ecuador national football team. DR Congo, meanwhile, exited the tournament after an impressive campaign, having qualified through the intercontinental playoffs.

England found themselves trailing after conceding in the seventh minute but showed resilience to recover and secure the victory. DR Congo focused on maintaining possession and attacking initiative, creating and missing several chances in the first half. Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi made a series of saves to deny England before Harry Kane equalized in the 75th minute and scored the winner four minutes before the end of regulation time.

England successfully protected their lead with a disciplined defensive performance, holding off sustained Congolese pressure in search of a late equalizer.

With his two goals, Harry Kane increased his tally to five goals in the current World Cup. He also became England's all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup finals with 13 goals across three tournaments. (QNA)