BBC viewers tuning into the World Cup 2026 were left astonished during England's knockout clash against the Democratic Republic of Congo, not by the on-field action, but by the uncanny resemblance of two presenters to iconic EastEnders characters.
During the BBC's pre-match build-up on Wednesday (July 1), reporter Kelly Somers spoke with pundit Alan Shearer on the turf at the Atlanta Stadium. As they discussed the atmospheric conditions, audiences quickly noticed a striking likeness between Somers and Shearer and the legendary soap couple Tanya and Max Branning, portrayed by Jo Joyner and Jake Wood.
England's Dramatic Victory Overshadowed by Lookalike Buzz
England had progressed from Group L unbeaten, with wins over Croatia and Panama and a goalless draw with Ghana, but had failed to impress. Those concerns deepened when Brian Cipenga scored for DR Congo just seven minutes into the round of 32 tie. After a nervy 70 minutes, Harry Kane equalized and then smashed home a spectacular 86th-minute winner to seal the turnaround.
Nevertheless, viewers were already distracted before kick-off. Alan 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."
Social Media Erupts with EastEnders Comparisons
Posting a picture of Kelly and Alan on X (formerly Twitter), one viewer wrote: "Thought that was Tanya and Max Branning ffs." Another added: "Teehee. Great shout, can't believe I've never noticed Somers-Joyner alike before," while a third remarked: "OMG I knew she looked familiar." A fourth quipped: "Does Stacey know? I feel she should be told." Others chimed in: "I thought it was just me who thought she looked like Tanya," and "That's the biggest win of the day!" Another posted: "Looks like she's back with Max there!"
EastEnders Legacy and Broadcast Details
Tanya and Max Branning remain one of the most renowned and turbulent couples in the BBC soap's history, with their romance forming the backbone of the programme from 2006 to 2018. Their storyline included Max's affair with Stacey Slater and Tanya's shocking decision to bury Max alive.
Coverage of the World Cup 2026 airs on the BBC and ITV, while EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer from 6am.
