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Kane Hat-Trick Powers England Past Congo, Ends 60-Year Curse

7/2/2026

37 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Kane Secures Victory

England beat DR Congo 2-1 on July 1 2026 in Atlanta, advancing to the World Cup round of 16.
England striker Harry Kane equalised in the 75th minute and scored the winner in the 86th, taking his World Cup tally to 13, surpassing Pelé and tying Just Fontaine for England’s record.
The win ended a 60-year streak of England losing after conceding first and sets a round-of-16 match with Mexico at Estadio Azteca on July 5 2026.

Summary

Congo Claims Victory

Congo defeated Uzbekistan to claim its first World Cup victory.
The win gave the 46th-ranked side its first World Cup goal, point and triumph since appearing as Zaire in 1974.
Before kickoff, winger Yoane Wissa said the team played “for peace” amid the war in East Congo.
After the loss, coach Sébastien Desabre expressed disappointment, noting the players believed they could win and lamenting the two late goals conceded.

History

Historical Context

In July 1966 England hosted and won its first FIFA World Cup, beating West Germany 4–2 at Wembley before a crowd of about 98,000. The victory made England the fifth nation and the third host to claim the title, echoing earlier host successes by Uruguay (1930) and Italy (1934). The tournament also sparked reforms after controversial officiating, leading to the yellow-card system in 1970.

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Kane Secures Victory

England beat DR Congo 2-1 on July 1 2026 in Atlanta, advancing to the World Cup round of 16.
England striker Harry Kane equalised in the 75th minute and scored the winner in the 86th, taking his World Cup tally to 13, surpassing Pelé and tying Just Fontaine for England’s record.
The win ended a 60-year streak of England losing after conceding first and sets a round-of-16 match with Mexico at Estadio Azteca on July 5 2026.

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