England narrowly avoided a major upset in the 2026 World Cup round of 32, coming from behind to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta. Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo an early lead, but captain Harry Kane scored a late brace to secure the Three Lions' place in the next round.
Declan Rice Injury Update
Midfielder Declan Rice eased injury fears after being substituted late in the match. Rice was seen applying ice to his leg following his replacement by John Stones, but he declared himself "good as gold" and confirmed the measure was purely precautionary due to the sweltering 30-degree conditions in Atlanta.
Tragedy for DR Congo Coach
After the final whistle, DR Congo head coach Sebastien Desabre learned of his father's death during his post-match press conference. The news was announced without warning at the Mercedes-Benz Arena, and a visibly devastated Desabre responded with a hushed "Merci" before leaving the room.
Belgium's Stunning Comeback
Belgium produced a remarkable turnaround to beat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in Seattle. Senegal appeared to be cruising after goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr, but Romelu Lukaku sparked Belgium's comeback in the 86th minute. The match was suspended in the 31st minute when three pitch invaders, believed to be social media influencers, stormed onto the field. Security personnel apprehended them, and play resumed.
Penalty Drama and Boycott Threat
In the 125th minute of extra time, Belgium captain Youri Tielemans was fouled in the penalty area by Lamine Camara. After a lengthy VAR review, Tielemans converted the spot-kick to secure victory. Following the match, Senegal star Pape Gueye announced on Instagram that he would take a break from the national team as long as the current technical staff remains, stating: "I'll be back to give you a few words regarding elimination... but I announce today that as long as it's this technical staff I'll take a break from the selection."
USA Advance with 10 Men
Co-hosts the United States secured a 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in San Francisco. Folarin Balogun scored in the first half but was sent off in the 64th minute, leaving head coach Mauricio Pochettino furious. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Malik Tillman scored a superb free-kick in the 82nd minute to seal victory and end a 13-match World Cup winless run for the USA against European opponents. The USA will face Belgium in the round of 16.
