England captain Harry Kane has surpassed a record previously held by Brazilian football legend Pele, scoring his 13th World Cup goal during the Three Lions' 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match took place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1.
Kane Breaks Pele's Longstanding Record
Kane's 13th World Cup goal moved him past Pele, who ended his career with 12 goals across four tournaments between 1958 and 1970. Pele scored his 12 goals in just 16 World Cup appearances and remains the only player in history to win three World Cup titles, lifting the trophy in 1958, 1962 and 1970. Kane now stands alone as the most prolific English scorer in World Cup history and one of the top marksmen overall.
England Comeback Against DR Congo
DR Congo stunned England with an early opener in the seventh minute through Brian Cipenga, who finished clinically after being set up by captain Chancel Mbemba. England responded in the 75th minute as Kane drew level with a composed header from Anton Gordon, before completing the comeback with four minutes to go, per BBC. The win secured England's place in the Round of 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico on Monday, July 6.
Kane's World Cup Journey
Kane won the Golden Boot at the 2018 World Cup after scoring six goals during England's run to the semi-finals and is now just one goal short of matching that tally in the current tournament. He also made his 15th World Cup start against DR Congo, the most by any outfield player in the history of England. With England still in the tournament, the 32-year-old has the opportunity to extend his tally further and continue climbing the all-time World Cup scoring charts.
Kane Praises Opponent Goalkeeper
After the match, Kane admitted that DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi gave England a tough time. According to ESPN, Kane said: "Their keeper made some unbelievable saves in the first half. It was just about pounding the rock, keep pounding the rock, and our moments will come. We spoke about people having hero moments. It could be anyone in the team. We have hero moments, and for me it was the day."
England will now shift their attention to the Round of 16, where they hope to continue their quest for a first World Cup title since 1966.
