DR Congo produced one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 World Cup by defeating England 2-1 in the last 32 on Monday, with Yoane Wissa scoring twice to send the African side into the round of 16 and eliminate the Three Lions.
Wissa's Double Punishes England's Wastefulness
Brentford forward Wissa struck in the 34th and 72nd minutes, capitalizing on defensive errors from England. Harry Kane pulled one back in the 88th minute, but it was too late for Gareth Southgate's side, who dominated possession but lacked a cutting edge.
England had 68% of the ball and registered 18 shots, but only four were on target. DR Congo, ranked 67th in the world, were clinical with their chances, scoring from two of their six attempts.
Historic Achievement for DR Congo
This is the first time DR Congo has advanced beyond the group stage of a World Cup. Coach Hector Cuper praised his team's discipline: "We knew England would have more of the ball, but we stayed compact and took our opportunities. Wissa was outstanding."
The victory sets up a round of 16 clash with Argentina, who topped Group D. DR Congo will be heavy underdogs again, but after this result, nothing seems impossible.
England's Early Exit Raises Questions
England's exit at the first knockout stage marks their earliest World Cup departure since 2014. Southgate accepted responsibility: "We had enough chances to win the game, but we were punished for individual mistakes. It's a tough one to take."
The defeat will likely spark debate about Southgate's future, with some pundits calling for a change in direction. England's failure to convert possession into goals has been a recurring theme in recent tournaments.
