Kane passes Pele as England fight back to sink DR Congo

England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, a Harry Kane brace not only rescuing the heavy favourites but writing the captain's name into World Cup history. Kane's second goal was his 13th at the finals, moving him past Pele's total of 12 and into rarefied company among the tournament's all-time marksmen. It completed a relentless England comeback after a shock early DR Congo lead, Thomas Tuchel's side eventually overwhelming resolute opponents who had threatened one of the upsets of the round.

Match summary: Cipenga stuns, Kane strikes twice

DR Congo made a dream start, Brian Cipenga firing them ahead on 7 minutes after a clever Chancel Mbemba assist to silence the England support. What followed was wave after wave of England pressure — 59 per cent possession and a procession of chances — repelled repeatedly by an inspired goalkeeper Mpasi, whose string of saves, including a stunning denial of Jude Bellingham, drew comparisons to an immovable statue. England's persistence finally told on 75 minutes when Kane headed home from close range, converting an Anthony Gordon chip to the six-yard box. Eleven minutes later Kane struck again, twisting a finish from left to right after another Gordon delivery — the winner, and the record-breaker, on 86 minutes.

A record for Kane, a proud exit for DR Congo

Kane's brace carried him past Pele into the World Cup's scoring elite, his 13 goals a testament to remarkable consistency on the biggest stage, with Gordon's two assists the perfect supply line. For DR Congo, defeat ends a campaign that captured hearts: their first-ever World Cup goals, a 1-1 hold of Portugal, a win over Uzbekistan and a first knockout appearance made this a landmark tournament for the Leopards. Mpasi's heroics in Atlanta will live long in the memory, and though England's quality ultimately told, DR Congo depart with their reputation hugely enhanced. Priced at heavy favourites, England were made to work for every inch.

England to meet Mexico in a Round of 16 with history

Victory sends England into a Round of 16 tie with hosts Mexico on July 6 at the Estadio Azteca — a fixture rich in history, the nations having last met at a World Cup in 1966, with England holding the all-time edge. It will be a formidable test at altitude against an unbeaten host, but England travel on the back of a captain in record-breaking form. DR Congo, eliminated, head home after a run that will be remembered as one of the tournament's finest underdog stories.