England will take on Mexico in the last 16 of the World Cup on Monday after Harry Kane's two late goals secured a 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday.
Kane's Heroics Rescue England
Captain Harry Kane scored in the 75th and 86th minutes to overturn an early deficit after Brian Cipenga put DR Congo ahead in the seventh minute. England struggled to break down the African side, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi making several outstanding saves.
Kane described the performance as his "hero moment" after rescuing the Three Lions at Atlanta Stadium in Georgia.
Royal and Political Reactions
The Prince of Wales, patron of the Football Association, posted a tongue-in-cheek tribute on Instagram with a winking emoji: "Never in doubt… well done England! Onto the next! W."
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hinted at World Cup glory, writing on X: "It might actually be coming home."
Mexico Challenge Ahead
Thomas Tuchel's side will face tournament co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Mexico City Stadium early Monday. The match will be played at altitude in front of a passionate home crowd.
Former England captain David Beckham praised Kane on Instagram, calling him a "true leader" and the team "absolutely brilliant."
Fan Reactions and Traffic Impact
After the win, fans at the stadium sang Oasis's "Wonderwall," prompting frontman Liam Gallagher to post: "Cmon England cmon Wonderwall." An Oasis cover band performed at Boxpark Wembley for relieved supporters.
Traffic data from TomTom showed congestion in London at 4pm on Wednesday was 76%, up from 73% the previous day, but dropped to 57% by 6pm during the match, down from 72%. In Birmingham, congestion at 4pm was 125% (compared to 100% on Tuesday) and fell to 53% at 6pm (down from 90%).
Fan Tony Woods from St Helens, Merseyside, told the Press Association: "We struggled first half but once Harry got that one (goal), there was only one winner wasn't there?" He added: "I watched Mexico last night and was a bit worried. But I just think we've got a bit of dog in us and we'll do it. I wouldn't say I'm not nervous, but I think we'll do it 2-1 against Mexico, no problem."
