England manager Thomas Tuchel praised his side’s resilience after they came from behind to beat the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1, saying his players refused to accept defeat and showed the mentality needed to succeed at the World Cup.
The Three Lions looked on course for a shock exit after Brian Cipenga fired DR Congo into an early lead, with the underdogs holding their advantage until the closing stages. But captain Harry Kane delivered once again, scoring twice late on to complete a dramatic comeback and send England into the Round of 16.
Tuchel said the performance proved this England squad has learned from the disappointments of previous major tournaments.
“This team did not accept defeat as an outcome,” Tuchel said after the match. “It would have been easy to give in or accept the narrative, but I didn’t see any of that. That makes me very proud because they did what was necessary. When things got tough, they responded and earned a deserved victory.”
England’s reward is a blockbuster last-16 clash against co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium, where more than 70,000 home supporters are expected to create a hostile atmosphere.
Tuchel acknowledged the challenge awaiting his team, particularly the high altitude in Mexico City.
“It’s one of the most exciting fixtures you can have. The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we can’t physically adapt to it in just four days. But we’re ready for whatever comes our way. Maybe this is exactly the kind of challenge we need to truly believe we can go all the way.”
England’s route to the title remains daunting, with potential meetings against Brazil, Argentina and France later in the tournament if they continue their run.
Once again, Kane proved decisive. His brace not only rescued England but also lifted his tournament tally to five goals, taking his overall World Cup total to 13.
The Bayern Munich striker remains firmly in the race for the Golden Boot, trailing only Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, who lead the standings with six goals each. Erling Haaland also has five goals, while Ousmane Dembele and Vinicius Junior have four.
Tuchel hailed his captain’s match-winning influence.
“They’re all sharks. Once they smell blood, they know how to score,” he said of the Golden Boot contenders. “Harry is so, so good. He’s our captain, our leader, and he decides football matches with unbelievable finishes. Today, he did it twice, and the second goal was simply brilliant.”
