Harry Kane praised England’s resilience after his late double inspired a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo at Atlanta Stadium, sending the Three Lions into the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
England looked to be heading for a shock exit after falling behind early in the knockout clash. However, Kane struck twice in the final 15 minutes to complete a remarkable turnaround and book a last-16 meeting with co-hosts Mexico.
Reflecting on the hard-fought victory, the England captain admitted it had been an emotional afternoon but praised his teammates for refusing to give up.
“It feels amazing to be honest. What a crazy game. They are a tough team and then after that first break we were much better and their keeper made some unbelievable saves. We spoke about people having hero moments and it can be anyone. It was me today.”
Kane also stressed that England stayed true to their approach despite the difficult circumstances and believes knockout football is often about finding a way to win rather than producing perfect performances.
“We spoke all week about just being ourselves. There are still things to work on for sure and these rounds are just about getting through. We are in the part of ther tourament when you have to grind wins out, and that’s what we have done today.”
The striker urged the squad to celebrate the victory before quickly shifting their attention to the next challenge.
“We are the same as every other nation. We are through, so enjoy it. I want them to enjoy it with the fans, and then we go again in four days.”
Harry Kane also highlighted the impact of England’s substitutes, whose contributions helped swing the momentum in the closing stages.
“We spoke after the Croatian game about subs making an impact and you saw that again. Over 90 minutes, we are tough to handle. I am pleased for everyone involved and hopefully we’ll keep it going.”
The decisive moment arrived in the 86th minute. After surviving a DR Congo attack, England launched a swift counter. Lionel Mpasi produced another excellent save to deny Jude Bellingham, but Anthony Gordon recovered the loose ball and picked out Kane on the edge of the penalty area. The England captain then smashed an unstoppable strike into the top-right corner to seal a memorable comeback and spark wild celebrations among the travelling supporters.
Midfielder Elliot Anderson also praised the team’s determination after overcoming a difficult start to the match.
“It was a tough game. We stuck by each other until the very end, and we got through.”
The Newcastle United midfielder credited England’s experienced stars for delivering when it mattered most.
“You look to the big-game players to get us through in the end. We build the foundations and try to get them the ball.”
Anderson admitted England struggled during the opening stages but felt they improved as the game progressed despite the outstanding performance from DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
“I think we grew into the game and the first 20 minutes were poor. Their keeper was amazing and the subs made a massive difference.”
He ended by thanking the supporters and insisting the squad will quickly refocus ahead of the next knockout challenge.
“We’ll enjoy it with fans and then we will get our heads down and get back on it.”
England now march into the World Cup round of 16 full of confidence after another comeback led by Kane, whose leadership and clinical finishing once again proved decisive on football’s biggest stage.
