Match Summary · England · World Cup · Football · International · World Cup · England · Congo DR
The period stats tell the story of the comeback: Congo DR led 1-0 in the opening half, while England won the second half 2-0. Cipenga's seventh-minute finish came from a cross toward the far post, where the UD Almería forward arrived to put Congo DR in front.
England's defensive shape broke down in the move. Djed Spence was drawn inside, Noni Madueke did not recover, and Elliot Anderson failed to track the danger from midfield. Declan Rice and Harry Kane demanded a response after the goal, but England struggled to settle and misplaced passes across the pitch.
Bellingham's booking added to the pressure, while England supporters voiced their frustration during the first-half hydration break. Marcus Rashford then threatened an equaliser, only for Wan-Bissaka to clear the effort off the line and preserve Congo DR's lead at the interval.
England's 2-0 second-half score changed the contest and delivered the result. The key highlights were Congo DR's sharp start, England's recovery and the final turnaround. In summary, the score stats record a 2-1 World Cup victory after a troubled opening.