England ended a curse that had lasted 6 decades, with a dramatic and thrilling 2-1 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It was England's first win in a World Cup knockout match after falling behind, for the first time since the final of the 1966 edition held in England.
England conceded an early goal when Bryan Mbungu scored for Congo in the 7th minute, leaving Thomas Tuchel's side in danger of an early exit, before captain Harry Kane led the comeback by scoring both goals in the second half to seal the win.
According to statistics, the only previous occasion England managed to win a World Cup match after falling behind was in the 1966 final, when they overturned a deficit against West Germany to win 4-2 and claim the title.
Despite struggling to break through the Congolese defence, England intensified their attacking pressure and relied heavily on crosses, delivering 35 crosses from open play — their highest tally in a World Cup match since facing Mexico in the group stage in 1966.
England maintained their unbeaten record against African sides, registering a sixth win against a team from the continent, with four draws and no defeats. England will face Mexico in the round of 16, in a match to be held at the Azteca stadium, having recovered their composure at the right moment to keep their title hopes alive and turn the page on 60 years of waiting.