England trails DR Congo 1-0 in FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier

Kathmandu. In the FIFA World Cup 2026 final 32 clash, former winner England is trailing 1-0 after the first half. In the competition held at Atlanta Stadium, the Democratic Republic of Congo scored early in the game, putting pressure on England, one of the world's strongest teams. Bryon Sipenga scored an excellent goal in the seventh minute, giving Congo an early lead. Sipenga beat English goalkeeper Jordan Pickford by utilizing Chancel Mbemba's pass. England's defense appeared quite flustered after conceding a goal within the first ten minutes. Congo had a golden opportunity to double their lead in the 42nd minute, but England was saved from another crisis when Yoane Wissa's shot hit the post and came back. England struggled and tried hard to equalize in the first half. Although captain Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Marcus Rashford created some excellent moves, Congo's strong defense and goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi were obstacles. Congo defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka cleared Marcus Rashford's shot off the goal line in the 36th minute, saving a certain goal. Similarly, goalkeeper Mpasi made an excellent save on a powerful shot from Jude Bellingham. The final moments of the first half were not without controversy. England demanded a penalty in the 43rd minute when Congo's goalkeeper fouled captain Harry Kane inside the box. However, the referee denied Kane's appeal and did not award a penalty. Even with the help of VAR, the referee maintained his initial decision. If England loses this match, their World Cup journey will end here, while if Congo wins, they will historically enter the Round of 16 and secure a match against Mexico.