World Cup Day 21: Kane's Rescue Act, Belgium's Great Escape, USA March On
2026-07-02 02:14:37
The Round of 32 delivered extraordinary drama on July 1. England needed Harry Kane's late heroics to avoid a shocking exit against DR Congo. Belgium pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in World Cup history, overturning a two-goal deficit to beat Senegal in extra time. Co-hosts USA advanced comfortably despite playing the final stretch with ten men.England 2-1 DR CongoEngland were 15 minutes from a humiliating World Cup exit before captain Harry Kane took over. Brian Cipenga's early strike gave DR Congo a deserved lead, and goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a string of magnificent saves to keep England at bay. Kane finally broke through in the 75th minute, heading home Anthony Gordon's cross. With four minutes remaining, the captain collected the ball on the edge of the box, turned, and lashed a stunning winner past Mpasi for his fifth goal of the tournament. England now face co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium.Belgium 3-2 Senegal (AET)Senegal appeared to be cruising into the last 16 after goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr gave them a commanding 2-0 lead. But Romelu Lukaku, written off after an injury-plagued club season, sparked Belgium's rescue with an 86th-minute finish. Three minutes later, Youri Tielemans headed in Leandro Trossard's cross to force extra time. Then came controversy: a VAR review penalised Lamine Camara's challenge on Tielemans, and the captain converted the 125th-minute spot-kick — the latest goal in World Cup history. Senegal's heartbreak was complete.USA 2-0 Bosnia-HerzegovinaFolarin Balogun gave the hosts a first-half lead, but his night soured when he was sent off for an unfortunate challenge on Tarik Muharemovic with 26 minutes remaining. Down to ten men, the Americans defended resolutely before Malik Tillman sealed the win with a curling free-kick that crept inside the post. Bosnia pushed for a way back, with Amar Memic and Kerim Alajbegovic both going close, but couldn't find a breakthrough. The USA's first knockout win since 2002 sets up a last-16 meeting with Belgium in Seattle.—Upcoming Matches for July 2 (all times ET):3PM ET — Spain vs Austria, SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles7PM ET — Portugal vs Croatia, BMO Field, Toronto11PM ET — Switzerland vs Algeria, BC Place, Vancouver
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