England vs DR Congo

England scraped past DR Congo 2-1 in a match that was far tougher than many expected at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Brian Cipenga gave the Leopards a deserved early lead, running onto a long ball from Chancel Mbemba and beating Jordan Pickford at the near post to stun the Three Lions. England huffed and puffed against a deep, well-organised DR Congo side inspired by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi — the same keeper who impressed against Portugal in the group stage. It took Harry Kane to drag England level, heading in an Anthony Gordon cross, before the Three Lions captain delivered once again — running onto a pass, working space on the edge of the box, and hammering a second into the roof of the net. Thomas Tuchel's side looked vulnerable throughout and will need to improve significantly when they face Mexico at Estadio Azteca in the Round of 16, where the noise and atmosphere will be even more intense.