Kane breaks Pelé's World Cup record in England's dramatic win against DR Congo

Atalanta: Harry Kane equalled Pelé's long-standing World Cup goals tally before surpassing the Brazilian legend as England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 on Tuesday.

The England captain struck twice in the second half in Atlanta, first drawing level with Pelé on 12 World Cup goals before netting his 13th to complete a dramatic comeback against the tournament debutants in the knockout stage.

Kane's match-winning brace also took him level with Sir Geoff Hurst on four World Cup knockout-stage goals for England, leaving only Gary Lineker (six) ahead of him in the country's all-time knockout scoring charts.

England looked set for one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history after Brian Cipenga fired DR Congo into an early lead. Thomas Tuchel's side struggled to break down a disciplined Congolese defence and were repeatedly denied by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka produced a crucial goal-line clearance to keep the Three Lions at bay.

DR Congo also came close to doubling their advantage before half-time when Yoane Wissa struck the outside of the post from close range.

Tuchel responded by introducing Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze in the second half, and the changes transformed England's attack.

Gordon supplied the cross for Kane's 75th-minute equaliser, as the striker powered home a header to bring England level. Eleven minutes later, Gordon was involved again before Kane unleashed a thunderous strike into the roof of the net to seal a 2-1 victory.

The goals took Kane's World Cup tally to 13, moving him clear of Pelé and further extending his record as England's leading scorer at the tournament. He also has five goals at the 2026 World Cup, strengthening his challenge for the Golden Boot.

The victory spared England from a shock Round of 32 exit and sent Tuchel's side into the last 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.

For DR Congo, the defeat brought an end to a remarkable campaign. The Leopards, playing at their first World Cup in 52 years, reached the knockout rounds for the first time after a series of spirited performances and pushed one of the tournament favourites to the brink before Kane's late heroics turned the tie in England's favour.