England and the United States both reached the World Cup round of 16 on a night of late drama, with Harry Kane’s double saving England and Folarin Balogun scoring and being sent off in the U.S. win.
England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta after a slow and shaky start.
Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo an early lead in the seventh minute. England struggled to settle and looked vulnerable in defence.
Thomas Tuchel’s side lacked control in the first half. Jude Bellingham forced a save from Lionel Mpasi. Marcus Rashford had an effort cleared off the line. Kane was repeatedly denied.
DR Congo remained dangerous on the counterattack. Yoane Wissa hit the post before halftime. England went into the break trailing.
Tuchel turned to his bench after the restart. Anthony Gordon’s introduction changed the tempo.
England equalised in the 75th minute. Gordon delivered from the left. Kane rose to head home.
The winner came late. Kane collected the ball outside the box in the 86th minute, shifted past defenders and drilled a low finish into the net.
DR Congo pushed England hard throughout with a disciplined and energetic display but could not hold on.
England will face Mexico in Mexico City in the round of 16.
In Santa Clara, the United States also advanced with a 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, though the match featured both breakthrough and setback for Balogun.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side controlled much of the game with energy and creativity against a defensive Bosnia team.
Balogun opened the scoring by reacting quickest to steer Malik Tillman’s deflected pass past goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj.
His night then turned after the hour mark when he was sent off for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic, with his studs catching the defender.
The United States briefly lost momentum but regained control. Tillman sealed the win with a curling free-kick.
Christian Pulisic also had a goal ruled out for offside.
The United States will face Belgium in Seattle in the round of 16.
