FIFA round of 32: England qualify for Mexico quarterfinal as DR Congo knocked out

WEB DESL: England booked their place in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals after coming from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in a dramatic Round of 32 clash at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday.

DR Congo stunned the Three Lions with an early breakthrough when Brian Cipenga struck in the seventh minute, giving the African side a deserved first-half lead as England struggled to find their rhythm.

England dominated possession and created numerous chances before captain Harry Kane finally restored parity in the 75th minute. The striker completed the comeback 11 minutes later, scoring again in the 86th minute to seal a hard-fought victory and spare his side from a major upset.

The Three Lions finished with 16 shots, including eight on target, while enjoying 54 per cent possession. DR Congo managed seven attempts, with two on target, but were unable to force extra time despite a spirited performance.

With the victory, England advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face Mexico, while DR Congo’s historic World Cup campaign comes to an end.

England: Jordan Pickford; Ezri Konsa, Nico O’Reilly, Marc Guehi, Djed Spence; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham; Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, Noni Madueke.

DR Congo: Lionel Mpasi; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba, Arthur Masuaku; Ngalayel Mukau, Nathanael Mbuku, Samuel Moutoussamy, Noah Sadiki; Brian Cipenga, Yoane Wissa.