England secured a 2-1 comeback win over DR Congo in the World Cup round of 32, but the victory was overshadowed by an injury scare to Declan Rice and the sudden death of DR Congo manager Sebastien Desabre's father. Belgium produced a dramatic extra-time victory against Senegal, while the USA beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 despite playing with 10 men.
England Survive Scare, Rice Injury Update
Harry Kane scored a late double to overturn a 1-0 deficit after Brian Cipenga's early opener for DR Congo. England midfielder Declan Rice was substituted late in the match and applied ice to his quad, but later told reporters he is 'good as gold' and that the precaution was due to the 30-degree heat.
DR Congo Manager's Personal Tragedy
After the match, DR Congo manager Sebastien Desabre learned of his father's sudden death during his post-match press conference. When informed, a visibly stunned Desabre said 'Merci' quietly before leaving the room at the Mercedes-Benz Arena.
Belgium's Controversial Comeback
Belgium trailed Senegal 2-0 before Romelu Lukaku scored in the 86th minute to spark the fightback. In the 125th minute of extra time, a VAR review awarded Belgium a penalty after Youri Tielemans was brought down by Lamine Camara. Tielemans converted the spot kick to seal a 3-2 win. Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye announced he is taking a break from international duty, stating: 'As long as it's this technical staff I'll take a break from the selection.'
Pitch Invaders Disrupt Match
The Belgium-Senegal match was temporarily stopped in the 31st minute when three individuals, believed to be social media influencers, stormed the pitch. Security personnel pursued and tackled the intruders, and play resumed after a brief delay.
USA Advance Despite Red Card
Co-hosts the USA beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in San Francisco. Folarin Balogun opened the scoring but was sent off in the 64th minute, leaving manager Mauricio Pochettino furious. Despite being down to 10 men, Malik Tillman scored a superb free-kick in the 82nd minute to secure victory. The USA will face Belgium in the last 16.
