After England snatched the win 2-1, thanks inevitably to Harry Kane, the familiar tune of “Football’s Coming Home” boomed through the stadium’s loudspeakers. That felt very premature. Though England deserved to beat a highly competent Democratic Republic of Congo, they once again failed to justify their pre-tournament billing as a plausible contender to win the 2026 World Cup.
The overwhelming English emotion in the air-conditioned Atlanta Stadium was relief. England survived to face co-hosts Mexico in the altitude of Mexico City, in the mythical Azteca Stadium, in Sunday’s round of 16 — an outcome that was in doubt for most of the game. On seven minutes, a cross-field pass found Congolese winger Brian Cipenga free on the left of the English penalty area, abandoned by England’s makeshift third-choice right-back Djed Spence. Cipenga’s shot inexcusably surprised keeper Jordan Pickford at the near post. Pickford’s limitations are known, but England still have nobody better.
“The worst start possible,” commented England’s coach Thomas Tuchel afterwards. “First shot, first goal.” It was also the first international goal for Cipenga, who plays for Almería in Spain’s second division. DR Congo had clearly identified Spence as a weakness, directing the bulk of their attacks down his flank. If neither Reece James nor Jarell Quansah is fit to play right-back against Mexico, then centre-back Ezri Konsa or even midfielder Declan Rice could fill in there, as both did in this match’s latter stages.