Harry Kane’s Late Goals Secure England’s 2026 World Cup Qualifier Win Over DR Congo

Harry Kane scored two late goals to lead England into the round of 16 after a victory over DR Congo. According to AD.nl, the striker’s performance prevented a potential embarrassment for the English side, ensuring their progression in the tournament.

The match remained competitive through the first half, with de Volkskrant reporting that DR Congo held a lead over England when the teams went into the halftime break.

Kane’s late intervention shifted the momentum of the game. Voetbal International reported that the performance allowed Kane to equal a record held by Pelé during the match.

Following the final whistle, Kane described the encounter as a knotsgekke wedstrijd, or a crazy match, according to De Telegraaf.

How did England secure the win against DR Congo?

England’s advancement was not guaranteed for much of the match. DR Congo controlled the early stages, entering the locker room at halftime with a lead, as noted by de Volkskrant. This put England in a precarious position that threatened their status in the competition.

The turnaround occurred late in the second half. AD.nl reports that Kane steered the team toward the next round by netting two goals in the closing stages of the game. These goals overturned the deficit and secured the win.

What records did Harry Kane break?

The victory had significant implications for Kane’s individual statistics. Voetbal International stated that Kane equaled a milestone previously set by Pelé during this specific match against DR Congo.

While the specific nature of the Pelé record was highlighted by Voetbal International, other outlets focused on the tactical importance of the goals. AD.nl characterized the effort as a rescue mission that avoided a major tournament failure.

What happens next for England in the 2026 World Cup?

With the victory confirmed, England has officially qualified for the round of 16. De Telegraaf reports that the team is now celebrating their place in the knockout stages after the narrow escape against the Congolese side.

The result ensures England remains a contender in the tournament, though the struggle against DR Congo suggests a challenging path forward in the bracket.