LOS ANGELES: England and co-hosts the United States secured places in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 on Wednesday after overcoming determined opposition in contrasting knockout-stage victories, while Belgium completed a dramatic comeback to book a meeting with the Americans.
England captain Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes to inspire a 2-1 comeback victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, preventing an early World Cup exit for the Three Lions.
Co-hosts the United States, meanwhile, defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in Santa Clara despite playing much of the second half with 10 men following the dismissal of striker Folarin Balogun.
Belgium also progressed after recovering from a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in Seattle.
How did England avoid a shock elimination?
England fell behind in the seventh minute when DR Congo winger Brian Cipenga opened the scoring, putting the African side on course for one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
Harry Kane equalised in the 75th minute with a header before scoring the winner 11 minutes later to complete England’s comeback and secure qualification for the Round of 16.
England manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team’s resilience, saying his players refused to accept defeat despite trailing for much of the contest.
England will now face Mexico at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City in the next round.
How did the United States reach the last 16?
The United States defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara to register only the nation’s second-ever FIFA World Cup knockout-stage victory and its first in nearly 25 years.
Folarin Balogun gave the hosts the lead just before halftime but was sent off early in the second half after an incident involving Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic.
Despite being reduced to 10 players, the Americans extended their advantage through Malik Tillman, whose free kick secured qualification.
United States captain Christian Pulisic said the team showed character by defending its lead despite the numerical disadvantage.
How did Belgium complete its comeback?
Belgium overturned a 2-0 deficit against Senegal with four minutes remaining in regulation time before securing a 3-2 victory after extra time in Seattle.
The result sends Belgium into a Round of 16 meeting with tournament co-hosts the United States next week.
What are the Round of 16 fixtures?
England will travel to Mexico City to face Mexico in the Round of 16, while the United States will meet Belgium in Seattle following both teams’ successful knockout victories.
The results complete another dramatic day of FIFA World Cup action, with three nations securing progression after comeback performances and resilient displays under knockout-stage pressure.