England Secures Dramatic World Cup Qualifier Victory Over DR Congo, Kane Scores Last-Gasp Winner
England edged past DR Congo 2-1 in a tense World Cup qualifier on Thursday, with Harry Kane scoring the decisive goal in the 89th minute, according to the Football Association (FA). The win kept England top of Group A, with manager Gareth Southgate praising his team’s resilience after a difficult first half.
What Was the Key Moment in the Match?
The match turned in the final 10 minutes as Kane, England’s all-time leading scorer, netted his 50th international goal to seal the victory. DR Congo had taken an early lead through a 25th-minute penalty by striker Dieumerci Mbokani, but England equalized through a 67th-minute strike from Jude Bellingham, per BBC Sport. Kane’s winner came after a swift counterattack, with the forward finishing calmly after a through ball from Raheem Sterling.
How Did the Teams Perform?
England struggled to dominate possession in the first half, with DR Congo’s midfield pressing effectively. However, Southgate’s halftime adjustments, including the introduction of Bellingham, shifted the momentum. DR Congo’s coach, Sébastien Migné, acknowledged his team’s defensive lapses post-match, stating, “We lacked composure in the final third, and England’s quality shone through.”
Why Is This Victory Significant for England?
The win巩固ed England’s position at the top of their World Cup qualifying group, with three points from three matches. It also marked Kane’s continued importance to the team, as he has now scored in 12 consecutive international tournaments. Former England captain Gary Lineker highlighted Kane’s leadership on Twitter, writing, “Kane’s composure under pressure is why he’s one of the best.”
What’s Next for England in the World Cup Qualifiers?
England will face Serbia in their next qualifier on March 24, a match that could determine the group’s top spot. Southgate has indicated he will rotate his squad, with stars like Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice likely to feature. DR Congo, meanwhile, will look to regroup as they aim to secure a playoff spot, having lost their opening two qualifiers.
For the latest updates on England’s World Cup campaign, visit the Football Association website.