England Comes Back and Will Play Mexico in Round of 16

England suffered more than expected, but ultimately came back to win 2-1 against the Democratic Republic of Congo. The victory earned them a ticket to the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, where they will face Mexico.

The match in Atlanta showed two very different faces. Congo struck first, held firm for long stretches and forced England to struggle until the 86th minute to resolve the match.

How Did England Get Complicated?

England came out to dominate, but ran into an early blow. Brian Cipenga opened the scoring in the 7th minute and silenced the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. From there, Congo withdrew in an organized manner and bet on sacrifice. The strategy was simple, but it worked for nearly the entire match.

Lionel Mpasi became the night’s standout figure. The goalkeeper blocked headers, long-range shots and a Harry Kane volley that seemed destined for the goal. English pressure mounted, but each attempt ran into the Congolese wall. When Mpasi couldn’t reach it, a defender or the post appeared to maintain the advantage.

What Changed in the Second Half?

England pressed harder after the break. Thomas Tuchel’s team moved up their lines and sought to break down the African block with speed down the wings. At 60 minutes, two key substitutions arrived. Noni Madueke came in for Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon replaced Marcus Rashford.

The adjustment provided more width, though it didn’t solve the problem immediately. Congo continued defending with all its men near the area, and time was working in their favor. Harry Kane had claimed a penalty before halftime. Then, in the second half, he insisted again until he finally found the goal that changed the story.

Anthony Gordon crossed from the right and Kane finished inside the area. It was the equalizer that freed England and punished a Congo that was already heavily worn down. The English Football Association had already warned that the match with Congo could be a trap. The opponent’s performance confirmed that warning.

Why Does Mexico Appear in the Path?

The comeback left England facing Mexico in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.