BBC viewers of the 2026 World Cup were left doing a double take during England's round of 32 match against the Democratic Republic of Congo, as reporter Kelly Somers and commentator Alan Shearer were widely mistaken for iconic EastEnders couple Tanya and Max Branning.
Match Overview
England faced DR Congo in Atlanta on July 1, 2026, having advanced from Group L unbeaten with wins against Croatia and Panama and a goalless draw with Ghana. However, the team faced an early setback when Brian Cipenga scored for DR Congo just seven minutes into the match. After a tense 70 minutes, Harry Kane equalized and then scored a stunning 86th-minute winner to complete the comeback.
Viewer Confusion During Build-Up
Before the match, during the BBC's build-up coverage, Kelly Somers interviewed Alan Shearer on the pitch. Shearer commented on the conditions: "England have got a little bit lucky up to now, that may change if they win today and they go through on Sunday with the altitude. But up to now, twice it's been tipping it down and twice they've been in conditioned stadiums, so not too bad for them at the minute."
Viewers quickly noticed a striking resemblance between Somers and Shearer and the fictional EastEnders couple Tanya and Max Branning, played by Jo Joyner and Jake Wood. Tanya and Max were a central couple on the BBC soap from 2006 to 2018, known for their turbulent relationship involving affairs and dramatic plotlines.
Social Media Reactions
One viewer posted on X: "Thought that was Tanya and Max Branning ffs." Another added: "Teehee. Great shout, can't believe I've never noticed Somers-Joyner alike before." A third commented: "OMG I knew she looked familiar." A fourth joked: "Does Stacey know? I feel she should be told." Others shared: "I thought it was just me who thought she looked like Tanya," and "That's the biggest win of the day!" Another wrote: "Looks like she's back with Max there!"
The World Cup coverage airs on BBC and ITV, while EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and is available on BBC iPlayer from 6am.
