England survived an almighty scare against DR Congo on Wednesday evening, with two late Harry Kane goals leading them to a 2-1 victory in their World Cup last-32 clash.
It was a game that Thomas Tuchel’s side were expected to win rather comfortably, but that was not the reality in Atlanta. After the African side took the lead six minutes in, the English struggled to break them down over the hour or so that followed.
Lionel Mpasi would make some excellent saves in the DR Congo goal to keep his side in front in the first half. After the interval, they were relatively comfortable up until the hydration break.
However, a double from Harry Kane after that point was enough to complete the comeback.
🏴 2-1 🇨🇩
Harry Kane and England are not to be denied as the Bayern Munich man creates some space for himself before unleashing a world class finish beyond Mpasi
Watch all 104 games from the #FIFAWorldCup on RTÉ pic.twitter.com/tBmfmpa2XR
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) July 1, 2026
Gary Neville worried about England vs Mexico
Recommended
This game may act as a wakeup call for England, but it has also been the third consecutive World Cup fixture in which they have performed poorly.
They will certainly need to improve if they are to overcome Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in the next round. That was a point Gary Neville made on ITV this evening, especially when it came to the team’s defence.
I think that’s a massive, massive test. We’re going to have to step up a lot from the levels of performance we’re currently at…
I honestly look at our back four at the moment, I think they’re really good defenders, but what they lack is a bit of personality and organisation. You’ve got to go to Mexico, into the lion’s den against players that have great ability.
Is John Stones going to come back because he’s got a bit of experience? I just feel at the moment those three or four lads that are there need a leader from somewhere.
Roy Keane plays surprising role in England ITV debate
While Neville seemed fairly downbeat on England’s chances going into that game, Roy Keane was surprisingly positive about Thomas Tuchel’s side.
The Cork man has often been critical of England’s performances at major tournaments. However, on this occasion, he was more upbeat about their chances than the two British pundits alongside him in the studio.
We’re all sitting here talking, it’s not meant to be easy!
Do you not think Mexico will be worried about Kane and these boys? They will be worried, of course.
That’s the way you look at it. You look at the opposition, but you also look at your own dressing room and think that even on a bad day England will get one or two goals.
You’re hoping for those lads to turn up or your goalkeeper to make a big save or you won’t be winning any World Cup, that goes without saying.
Harry Kane said after the game that the players have to enjoy it. You have to enjoy going to play in Mexico.
An interesting outlook.
The game between Mexico and England will certainly be a fantastic occasion, with the home fans set to bring a huge amount of passion to the Azteca on the day.
Considering the way Mexico have been performing on the pitch and the altitude factor at play, it could be a daunting task to overcome for the English.