England Survive DR Congo Scare to Keep Title Dream Alive
England booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after battling back to defeat DR Congo 2-1 in a hard-fought Round of 32 clash. The Three Lions were pushed to the limit after falling behind in the first half, but captain Harry Kane once again delivered when it mattered most with two crucial goals to complete the comeback.
DR Congo impressed with their fearless attacking approach and looked capable of causing one of the tournament’s biggest upsets. However, England’s experience and attacking quality proved decisive in the closing stages. The victory keeps Thomas Tuchel’s side on course as they prepare for a high-profile Round of 16 clash against co-hosts Mexico.
Belgium Produce Stunning Comeback Against Senegal
Belgium produced one of the most dramatic victories of the tournament by overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time. Senegal appeared destined for a historic knockout-stage victory after goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr gave them complete control of the contest.
The introduction of Romelu Lukaku transformed Belgium’s attack as the Red Devils launched a remarkable late comeback. Lukaku sparked the revival before Youri Tielemans levelled the match to force extra time. Tielemans then calmly converted a penalty deep into extra time after a VAR review awarded Belgium the decisive spot-kick. The thrilling win sends Belgium into the Round of 16, where they will face the United States.
Ten-Man USA Show Character to Eliminate Bosnia
Co-host United States secured a memorable 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina despite playing nearly half the match with ten men. Folarin Balogun opened the scoring before receiving a controversial straight red card following a VAR review early in the second half.
Reduced to ten players, Mauricio Pochettino’s side displayed resilience under sustained Bosnian pressure. Goalkeeper Matt Freese and the American defence stood firm before Malik Tillman sealed the victory with a superb free-kick in the 82nd minute. The result marks the USA’s first FIFA World Cup knockout-stage victory since 2002 and sets up an exciting Round of 16 showdown against Belgium in Seattle. While Balogun will miss the next match due to suspension, the Americans will take confidence from a disciplined performance that showcased both determination and defensive grit.
