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According to Qatar News Agency, England overcame a seventh-minute goal from Brian Cipenga to record a 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the round of 32 on July 1, 2026. Harry Kane equalized with a header in the 75th minute before adding a solo strike four minutes from time to secure the result at Atlanta Stadium. The New York Times reported that DR Congo had controlled possession for long periods and created multiple chances, yet goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi’s saves could not prevent the late turnaround. England had improved after the interval but required Kane’s intervention to avoid an upset exit.
The win advances England to a round-of-16 contest against Mexico on Sunday at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Mexico had eliminated Ecuador in the previous stage to set up the meeting. FIFA data places the fixture among the early knockout matches, with the venue known for its intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.
Kane’s two goals took his tally to five in the 2026 tournament. The captain now has 13 goals in World Cup finals overall, moving him ahead of Pele’s total of 12 in the all-time charts. BBC Sport noted the strikes capped a resilient display in which England gradually imposed themselves after trailing early against a well-organized opponent.
England had finished top of Group L with seven points prior to the knockout round. That total came from victories over Croatia and Panama plus a goalless draw with Ghana. DR Congo reached the last 32 after progressing through the intercontinental playoffs but exited following the narrow loss.
Records from 11v11.com show England hold a favorable historical record against Mexico, with six wins, one draw and two defeats across nine meetings. The teams last faced each other in a 1966 World Cup group match that England won 2-0. Additional encounters include friendlies in which England have generally prevailed, setting a positive context for the upcoming clash.
The round-of-16 schedule published by FIFA includes several other ties across North America in the coming days. Paraguay are set to play France while Canada face Morocco in separate fixtures. These matches form the opening wave of the knockout phase for the 2026 edition co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
