Kane Delivers Late Drama as England Survives Congo DR Scare

England's Round of 32 opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium turned into a nervy affair before Harry Kane rescued the Three Lions with two crucial second-half strikes. Congo DR stunned the favorites with an early seventh-minute breakthrough through Brian Cipenga, setting the tone for a tense encounter in front of 68,239 supporters. Kane's composure proved decisive—he leveled matters in the 75th minute and sealed progression four minutes from time, ultimately steering Gareth Southgate's squad past a spirited African side. The Manchester City striker's double demonstrated precisely why England's attacking prowess remains their greatest asset in the tournament's knockout phase, though the slow start against the underdogs hints at vulnerabilities opponents may yet exploit as the competition intensifies.