Harry Kane Delivers Another Masterpiece as England Escape DR Congo Scare

England captain continues historic season with brace that cements football immortality

Harry Kane added another extraordinary chapter to one of the greatest goalscoring seasons in football history, rescuing England from the brink of a stunning FIFA World Cup exit with a sensational second-half brace against DR Congo.

England appeared destined for one of their most shocking World Cup eliminations after falling behind to Brian Cipenga’s seventh-minute opener and struggling to break down a resilient Congolese defence for much of the contest. But when England needed inspiration most, their captain once again delivered.

Kane finally restored parity in the 75th minute, meeting Anthony Gordon’s cross with a trademark header before producing the decisive moment 11 minutes later. Collecting possession outside the penalty area, the England captain unleashed a thunderous strike into the net to complete a dramatic 2-1 comeback and send the Three Lions into the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico.

The brace further elevated Kane’s astonishing 2025-26 campaign. 61 appearances, 72 goals, 7 assists and 79 goal contributions

His latest double also moved him into rarefied company in football history.

Most goals in a single season Club & Country.

1. Lionel Messi (2011-12) — 82
2. Gerd Müller (1972-73) — 72
3. Harry Kane (2025-26) — 72 (level with Müller)

The England captain has now matched Gerd Müller’s legendary tally, placing him among the greatest single-season goalscorers the game has ever witnessed.

Kane’s performance also carried enormous World Cup significance. His brace took him to 13 FIFA World Cup goals, moving him ahead of Brazilian icon Pelé on the competition’s all-time scoring chart while extending his own England scoring record.

England manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team’s perseverance after surviving what many feared would become a historic upset, while also acknowledging the decisive impact of substitutes, particularly Anthony Gordon, whose two assists transformed the contest.

Despite progressing, England know significant improvement will be required before facing tournament co-hosts Mexico. The Three Lions struggled for long periods against DR Congo and relied heavily on Kane’s brilliance to avoid elimination.

For Kane, however, another remarkable evening simply reinforced what has become the defining story of this season: whenever England need a match-winner, their captain continues to answer the call.