Former England manager Stuart Pearce has accused Arsenal winger Noni Madueke of 'giving up' during England's World Cup round-of-32 match against DR Congo on July 1, 2026. England trailed for over an hour after Brian Cipenga's early goal, but captain Harry Kane scored twice in the closing stages to secure a 2-1 victory and a place in the last 16.
Pearce's Criticism of Madueke
Madueke, who started the match, was substituted after 60 minutes for Arsenal teammate Bukayo Saka following a lackluster performance. Speaking on talkSPORT, Pearce said: 'I've got to say I was really disappointed with Noni Madueke. I was impressed by him in the first half, I thought he was outstanding at times. But in the second half, I think he took the easy option, got tired and gave up.'
Madueke, a former Chelsea player, has struggled to establish himself at Arsenal, with Saka ahead of him in Mikel Arteta's pecking order. Saka entered the World Cup under a fitness cloud but was deemed ready to replace Madueke.
Kane's Heroics Secure Victory
England's win was far from convincing, with DR Congo leading from the 14th minute until the 82nd minute. Kane equalized by heading in Anthony Gordon's cross, then smashed home the winner in the 89th minute. The Bayern Munich striker said after the match: 'It feels amazing to be honest. What a crazy game. They are a tough team and then after that first break we were much better and their keeper made some unbelievable saves.'
Kane added: 'We spoke about people having hero moments and it can be anyone. It was me today. There are still things to work on for sure and these rounds are just about getting through. We are in the part of the tournament when you have to grind wins out, and that's what we have done today. We are the same as every other nation.'
England's Next Challenge
The victory sends England into the last 16, where they will face co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. Manager Thomas Tuchel praised Kane, saying: 'That is what we expect from him. I think it is what he expects from himself. Difficult matches, close matches. Harry is here to decide them. Top level.'
Despite advancing, there is a consensus that England must improve significantly to challenge teams like France, Argentina, and Brazil in their quest for a first World Cup title in 60 years.
