England survive early scare from DRC and advance at World Cup on two late goals from Harry Kane

Captain Harry Kane has came to England’s rescue as they came from a goal down in a battling 2-1 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to seal their place in the last 16 of the World Cup.

Kane rifled home the winner four minutes from time, after equalising in the 75th minute, spinning away from his marker before heading home Anthony Gordon’s cross.

Brian Cipenga gave DRC a shock seventh-minute lead, the unmarked winger taking control of the ball wide in the box before drilling a low strike with his right foot to beat keeper Jordan Pickford at his near post.

Congolese keeper Lionel Mpasi made excellent saves from Jude Bellingham and Kane, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka blocking a goalbound effort from Marcus Rashford.

At the other end, Yoane Wissa hit the post from inside the six-yard area before the break.

England will play Mexico in the last 16 at the Azteca Stadium on Sunday.