Congo stun England with early goal

England suffered an early setback in their World Cup Round of 32 match against DR Congo at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday, July 1. The Three Lions, who entered as favourites, conceded a goal in the seventh minute, silencing the gallery.

Congo's Bryan Sipenga scored with a brilliant right-footed shot from the left side of the box, capitalising on a disorganised England defence. Captain Chancel Mbemba provided the assist.

England had slightly more possession from the start and tried to play with more intensity than in their recent matches against Ghana and Panama. However, they fell behind before finding their rhythm.

DR Congo surprised expectations by deploying a four-defender formation instead of their usual five-man defence, with Yoane Wissa as the lone striker supported by Sipenga and Nathanaël Mbuku.

Congo had qualified for the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams — a historic first for the country.

The match is still underway, with England looking to stage a comeback.