Kane saves England, Belgium break Senegal hearts as USA makes history

Harry Kane rescued England from the brink of a humiliating World Cup exit as the Three Lions survived a major scare against the Democratic Republic of Congo, while Belgium produced a stunning late comeback to break Senegalese hearts and the United States celebrated a historic victory to reach the last 16.

England looked destined for one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history after Brian Cipenga stunned the favourites with an early strike in Atlanta. The Democratic Republic of Congo defended bravely, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi producing a series of outstanding saves to frustrate Thomas Tuchel's side.

But captain Harry Kane once again delivered when England needed him most. Introduced substitute Anthony Gordon transformed the game, setting up Kane's 75th-minute equaliser before providing the assist for the striker's emphatic winner four minutes from time. Kane's brace sealed a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory and booked England a mouthwatering last-16 showdown with co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.

Belgium then eclipsed England's drama in Seattle, staging an extraordinary recovery from two goals down against Senegal. Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr had put Senegal in complete control, and with only minutes remaining the Lions of Teranga appeared set to join Morocco in the knockout stages.

Instead, Belgium mounted an astonishing late surge. Romelu Lukaku ignited hopes with an 86th-minute goal before Youri Tielemans headed home the equaliser three minutes later. With penalties looming, controversy struck deep into extra time when Belgium were awarded a spot-kick following a lengthy VAR review. Tielemans converted from the spot to complete a remarkable 3-2 turnaround and send Belgium into the last 16.

For Senegal, it was a cruel and painful ending. Holding a commanding 2-0 lead with five minutes left, they watched their World Cup dreams unravel in dramatic fashion. Coach Pape Thiaw lamented football as a "cruel game", while his players questioned the decisive penalty decision that ultimately ended their campaign. After dreaming of making history, Senegal were left to reflect on a collapse that will haunt them for years to come.

Elsewhere, the United States wrote a memorable chapter of their own World Cup story with a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in California. Folarin Balogun opened the scoring just before half-time before being sent off in the second half after a VAR review. Despite being reduced to ten men, the Americans stood firm, and Malik Tillman sealed the win with a superb free-kick.

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