England narrowly avoided a major upset in their World Cup campaign, defeating DR Congo thanks to a late brace from Harry Kane. The victory allowed them to advance to the last 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City.

Kane's Late Heroics Save England

With just 15 minutes remaining, England found themselves on the brink of a humiliating exit, reminiscent of past disappointments such as the loss to Iceland at Euro 2016 and the defeat to the United States in 1950. However, Kane's timely intervention not only secured the win but also provided a lifeline for head coach Thomas Tuchel, who faced significant scrutiny had the result gone the other way.

Concerns Persist Despite Victory

While the win keeps England's World Cup aspirations alive, it did not mask the ongoing issues that have plagued the team throughout the tournament. Kane and Jude Bellingham have emerged as key figures, consistently delivering outstanding performances. Both players contributed to earlier victories against Croatia and Panama and were instrumental again against DR Congo. However, for England to progress further, it is crucial that other players step up and share the responsibility.

Anthony Gordon made a notable impact from the bench, assisting in both goals against DR Congo, but it was a challenging match for Marcus Rashford and Noni Madueke. Additionally, Tuchel is cautiously managing Bukayo Saka's Achilles issue, which has limited his involvement.

Questions About Team Selection

Tuchel's team selection remains a topic of debate, with frequent changes in the lineup suggesting uncertainty about his best formation. The right-back position has become particularly problematic due to injuries and inconsistent performances. The sight of Declan Rice, a crucial midfield presence, finishing the match in a defensive role raised further questions about the coach's tactical decisions.

As England prepares to face Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium, the team must address these concerns to enhance their chances of success in the knockout stages of the World Cup.