The Democratic Republic of Congo took a surprising 1-0 lead against England during the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match at the Atlanta Stadium in Georgia on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
Forward Brian Cipenga scored the opening goal early in the first half, converting a low shot from the left side of the penalty area.
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England struggled to establish momentum as the Congolese team played with high intensity and a well-organized defensive structure.
Controversial Penalty Decision
The match turned contentious just before halftime when England captain Harry Kane went down in the box.
Referee Adham Makhadmeh immediately waved off penalty requests, gesturing that Kane had simulated the fall.
A lengthy VAR review upheld the on-field decision, concluding that the contact did not constitute a clear and obvious error.
Kane was not booked for simulation.
Football experts and fans on social media questioned the decision.
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Broadcast expert Ashley Westwood noted that VAR likely did not overturn the call because Kane appeared to be falling before physical contact occurred.
Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau delivered a standout performance, making critical saves to maintain the clean sheet.
He denied a powerful header from Jude Bellingham and a close-range attempt by Kane after a corner.
The Leopards nearly extended their lead when Yoane Wissa hit the post from an Aaron Wan-Bissaka cross.
Wan-Bissaka also cleared a goal-bound shot from Marcus Rashford off the line.
England's frustrations grew when Jude Bellingham received a yellow card for a hard sliding tackle.
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The first half ended with England trailing despite holding most of the possession late in the period.
