Atlanta: Harry Kane’s brace against DR Congo rewrites World Cup records

By Arjun Nair / 02.07.2026

By Arjun Nair — 2 July 2026 — 3 min read

Harry Kane‘s two goals against DR Congo not only secured a victory for England but also led to significant milestones in World Cup history. The match, played at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, saw England overcome a challenging start to win 2-1.

DR Congo initially took the lead in the seventh minute through Brian Cipenga, maintaining their advantage deep into the second half. Despite England’s dominance in possession, they struggled to convert opportunities until Kane’s decisive performance.

Kane’s Record-Breaking Performance

The breakthrough for England came in the 75th minute. Substitute Anthony Gordon delivered a cross, which Kane headed past goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, levelling the score. This goal brought Kane’s World Cup tally to 12 goals, matching the record held by Pelé, who achieved his 12 goals across 16 World Cup appearances.

Kane was not finished, as he scored again in the 86th minute. Gordon was once more instrumental, providing another ball into the penalty area. Kane reacted quickly, finding space to fire a powerful shot into the top-right corner, completing England’s comeback and sealing the 2-1 victory.

This second goal elevated Kane’s career World Cup goal count to 13, surpassing Pelé on the all-time scoring list for the tournament. This historic achievement occurred within an 11-minute span.

The brace also increased Kane’s goal count in the 2026 FIFA World Cup to five, placing him alongside Erling Haaland in the Golden Boot standings. Only Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé, both with six goals, are currently ahead in the race for the tournament’s leading scorer.

Impact on England’s World Cup History

Kane’s performance also reshaped England’s own World Cup records. His two goals in the knockout stage brought his total to five World Cup knockout goals, moving him past Sir Geoff Hurst, who had four knockout goals. Hurst’s record had stood since the 1966 World Cup triumph.

Only Gary Lineker, with six World Cup knockout goals, now remains ahead of Kane in England’s all-time list. This places Kane just one goal shy of matching another significant national record as England prepares for the Round of 16.

Beyond his World Cup achievements, Kane’s international career continues to grow. He has now scored 20 goals in major international tournaments for England, comprising 13 goals in the FIFA World Cup and seven in the UEFA European Championship. He is England’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer with 84 goals in 117 international appearances and holds the record for the most goals scored by an England player in major tournaments.

Kane previously won the Golden Boot at Russia 2018, scoring six goals as England reached the semi-finals. His recent brace means he now has five goals in the 2026 tournament, just one short of his personal best from 2018.

Against DR Congo, Kane made his 15th World Cup start, marking the most by any England men’s outfield player. His overall club and country goal tally for the season reached 72 goals. His performance earned him the Superior Player of the Match award.

England’s World Cup journey will continue with a Round of 16 match against co-hosts Mexico.

Source: bbc.com