England survived a major World Cup scare as captain Harry Kane scored two late goals to inspire a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo in Atlanta. The victory secured England's place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico after being on the verge of a shock elimination.

Harry Kane rescues England with late double

Harry Kane once again proved his importance for England by scoring twice in the closing stages to complete a remarkable turnaround. England trailed for most of the match after Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo an early lead. Thomas Tuchel's side looked set for one of the biggest upsets in their World Cup history before Kane stepped up when his team needed him most.

The England captain headed home the equaliser in the 75th minute before producing a brilliant winner four minutes from time to send his side into the last 16.

England struggle against determined DR Congo

England endured a frustrating evening against a disciplined and energetic DR Congo side. Despite enjoying plenty of possession, the Three Lions struggled to break down their opponents and created few clear chances for much of the contest.

DR Congo defended with great determination and looked increasingly likely to produce a famous victory as the clock ticked down.

Cipenga shocks England with early opener

DR Congo made the perfect start by taking an early lead through Brian Cipenga. The goal stunned England and gave the African side confidence as they continued to frustrate Thomas Tuchel's team throughout the first half.

England found it difficult to create attacking opportunities against DR Congo's organised defensive structure.

Mpasi produces outstanding goalkeeping display

Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi played a huge role in keeping DR Congo ahead for most of the match. The shot-stopper produced several outstanding saves to deny England's attackers and frustrated them with an excellent individual performance. His display kept England searching for answers as time continued to run out.

Wissa misses chance to double the lead

DR Congo almost moved two goals ahead just before halftime. Yoane Wissa found himself with a golden opportunity but struck the post despite having the goal at his mercy. The miss proved costly because it allowed England to remain within touching distance before mounting their late comeback.

Kane changes the game

England finally found their breakthrough with just 15 minutes remaining. Substitute Anthony Gordon delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area, where Harry Kane rose highest to power a header past Mpasi. The goal completely changed the momentum and gave England renewed belief.

Stunning winner seals comeback

Kane was not finished. With only four minutes left, he collected the ball near the edge of the penalty area, turned brilliantly away from his marker and drove forward before unleashing a powerful right-footed strike into the top corner.

The superb finish completed England's comeback and secured a dramatic victory. It was Kane's fifth goal of the tournament, further strengthening his outstanding World Cup campaign.

Gordon makes vital impact from the bench

Although Kane grabbed the headlines, substitute Anthony Gordon also made a crucial contribution. The winger had experienced a quiet tournament until this match but changed the game after coming off the bench. He created the equaliser with his accurate cross and played an important role in England's attacking improvement during the closing stages.

Kane delivers when England need him most

England's performance fell well below expectations for long periods. However, Kane once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the world's best strikers. His first goal came from a powerful header that finally beat the impressive Lionel Mpasi after repeated attempts.

His second goal showcased his complete skill set. He controlled the ball, turned away from defenders and fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner. When England desperately needed inspiration, their captain produced two moments of world-class quality.

England set up clash with Mexico

The victory sends England into the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico at the famous Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on Monday, 6 July. The venue holds special memories for English football, having hosted England's famous 1986 World Cup quarter-final defeat against Diego Maradona's Argentina.

England will now return to the historic stadium hoping to continue their World Cup journey after surviving one of the biggest scares of the tournament. Thomas Tuchel's side knows a much stronger performance will be needed against Mexico, but thanks to Harry Kane's late heroics, their dream of lifting the World Cup remains alive.