England Shows Comeback Qualities: "That Gives You Real Belief"

England is in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against DR Congo (To the match report>>>). After an early deficit, the "Three Lions" turned the game around thanks to a brace from Harry Kane and gained one thing above all: confidence.

"When you come back and win a game like that, it gives you real belief," said head coach Thomas Tuchel after the final whistle. His team showed character in the second half and knew exactly "what was needed today".

Kane Saves England

Harry Kane once again became the match-winner. The captain scored both goals, keeping England in the tournament (to the highlights>>>).

At the same time, he boosted his tally to five World Cup goals, putting him just one goal behind leaders Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland in the top scorer list (to the top scorer list>>>).

"It feels incredible," said Kane. He described it as a crazy game against a "strong and excellently organised team."

After the early deficit, however, England drew the right conclusions. "After the first water break, we raised our level." Despite several brilliant saves by the Congolese keeper, the team remained patient. "It was about continuing to apply pressure. We knew our moments would come."

"Hero Moments"

Before the match, they talked internally about so-called "Hero Moments," reveals Kane. Anyone can become a hero – "Me, Jordan Pickford with a save, or a defender with an an important block."

This time, it was the captain himself.

The success is also historic: England wins a World Cup knockout match after an early deficit for the first time since the 1966 World Cup final. Furthermore, Anthony Gordon assisted both of Kane's goals – a feat last achieved by an English player at a World Cup also in 1966.

Goals in VIDEO: