Kane's two-goal comeback seals England's dramatic 2-1 win over DR Congo at World Cup 2026

Harry Kane rescued England with two second-half goals to complete a 2-1 comeback victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday, keeping the Three Lions alive at the 2026 World Cup. England had trailed for the majority of the match before their captain turned the game on its head, sealing the win with a decisive header in the 75th minute.

The result prompted an outpouring of praise from across public life. Former England captain Sir David Beckham posted a photograph of Kane on his Instagram story, writing: “Wow we needed our captain tonight.” He described the team as “absolutely brilliant” and Kane as a “true leader”, also sharing an image of Kane and Jude Bellingham celebrating with the caption “Brilliant performance from our captain”.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer joined in, posting a photograph of Kane with the message: “It might actually be coming home.”

Pop star Harry Styles, who was midway through a run of ten nights at Wembley Arena, played the opening of the match on the venue’s big screens before the game kicked off. He was filmed on the arena floor jumping and cheering after Kane’s first goal.

EastEnders actor Ross Kemp offered a characteristically passionate reaction on his Instagram story. “This is my England,” he said, pounding his chest and chanting Kane’s name. Kemp also sounded a note of caution, saying: “Why does it have to be dentistry every time? We need to sort our defence out a little bit. But if you can beat that kind of belief then we are capable of winning the whole thing.”

Singer Olly Murs posted a video of himself in an England kit and bucket hat singing It’s Coming Home, while Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher posted on X: “Cmon England cmon Wonderwall” — a reference to the scenes in Atlanta where England fans and players alike belted out the Oasis anthem at full time.

England’s next fixture is against co-hosts Mexico on Monday 6 July at the Mexico City Stadium.