Kane: We knew our moment would come

Harry Kane said he always believed England’s chance would come after his second-half brace fired England into the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a 2-1 win over DR Congo.

The Three Lions staged a second half fightback at Atlanta Stadium, with Kane scoring twice in 11 minutes to overturn Brian Cipenga’s early strike and set up a last 16 tie with Mexico. 

The skipper headed home from close range to level the tie in the 75th minute, before a ferocious drive four minutes from time sparked jubilant celebrations.

It was a case of patience rewarded for England, who had been denied on several occasions by the impressive Lionel Mpasi in the DR Congo goal, but Kane said his team knew their opportunity would come.

“It feels amazing,” he said.

“It was a crazy game, first and foremost playing against a tough team, a well-organised team.

“The keeper made some unbelievable saves in the first half, it was just about pounding the rock. Keep pounding the rock. Our moment would come.

“We spoke about people having hero moments, it could be anyone. It could be me, it could be a save from Pickers, a block from the defenders, whoever it is we have hero moments. For me it was today.”

It proved to be another hard-fought encounter for England.

Thomas Tuchel's side created a host of chances, but DR Congo were not without a threat of their own and Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa might have extended their lead before the break, only to send his effort against the post. 

Having demonstrated their resilience, Kane called his team-mates together for a post-match huddle on the pitch at full-time with a message to enjoy the moment after what he felt was an encouraging attacking display. 

"You have to stay patient in these games," he added.

"From an attacking point of view, it was probably our best game of the tournament so far. Obviously still things to work on.

"Ultimately, these rounds are just about getting through. I think the boss spoke about it before the game. We are in the part of the tournament where you have to grind games out and that's what we did today."