"It might actually be coming home": Keir Starmer reacts to England's dramatic World Cup escape against DR Congo
Atlanta, July 2
Outgoing United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer perfectly captured the collective relief and soaring optimism of the nation after England narrowly avoided a monumental World Cup disaster, securing a breathtaking 2-1 comeback victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday.
With the Three Lions just minutes away from a shocking early exit in the Round of 32, a late masterclass from captain Harry Kane completely transformed the narrative, prompting joyful reactions from across the UK's political spectrum.
Following the dramatic final whistle, Keir Starmer took to social media to echo the famous, decades-old English football anthem. "It might actually be coming home," posted outgoing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on X.
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak joined the chorus of praise, shifting the focus to the psychological grit displayed by Thomas Tuchel's squad under immense pressure.
"Brilliant from England tonight," Sunak posted on X. "Huge credit to Harry Kane and the whole team for showing that fight right to the end."
The upbeat post-match reactions stood in stark contrast to the absolute anxiety that gripped English fans for the majority of the match. DR Congo, playing in the nation's first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout fixture, absolutely stunned the favourites in the seventh minute. Brian Cipenga finished a swift flank-driven move from close range to net his first international goal and give the African underdogs an early lead.
For over an hour, England's tournament survival hung by a thread. Despite controlling most of the ball, England struggled to crack open a highly disciplined and aggressive Congolese defensive block.
DR Congo effectively pressed England's midfielders, keeping goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi relatively untested through the first half.Recognising the impending catastrophe, manager Thomas Tuchel rang the changes shortly after the hour mark. He introduced dynamic attackers Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka, later throwing Eberechi Eze into the mix to overload the Congolese defence.
The relentless pressure finally shattered DR Congo's resistance in the 75th minute, when Harry Kane pounced on a loose ball inside the six-yard box to hammer home the equaliser.
With extra time looming ominously, the England skipper proved his world-class credentials once again. In the 86th minute, Kane struck a brilliant second to complete his brace and seal a remarkable turnaround.
Having safely defended their lead through a tense stoppage time, England officially punched their ticket to the Round of 16, where a blockbuster clash awaits them against tournament co-hosts Mexico. The high-stakes match will take place on Sunday, July 5, at 8:00 p.m. ET at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with a spot in the quarterfinals on the line.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting to see Keir Starmer getting involved in football hype. I mean, the man is literally on his way out as PM, and he's tweeting about "football coming home"? Priorities, ji 🤷♀️ But I guess even politicians need some distraction. Also, massive respect to DR Congo - first World Cup knockout match and they almost pulled off a giant-killing act!
Honestly, England should be worried, not celebrating. They struggled against DR Congo for 75 minutes - imagine what Mexico will do to them at the Azteca! Tuchel needs to sort out the midfield pressing issues. If they play like this against Mexico, it's going to be a very short tournament for them. Kane saved the day, but you can't rely on that every match.
As someone who watched the match at 3 AM here in India, this was absolutely worth the sleep deprivation! 🥱 That Saka and Gordon substitution changed everything - Tuchel finally realised pace was the answer to that stubborn Congolese defence. Kane's second goal was vintage stuff. England vs Mexico at the Azteca is going to be blockbuster! Can't wait for Sunday.
I'm an American living in Bangalore, and this England team reminds me of the USMNT in some ways - tons of talent but always making it harder than it needs to be. 😅 That said, Kane is probably the best pure striker in the world right now. Also, I absolutely love how football brings everyone together - seeing Indian fans this excited about England is fantastic!
K We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.