DR Congo lead England at half-time, leaving Three Lions stunned

Expectations were high for England's dominance, but the reality on the pitch told a different story. In their World Cup Round of 32 clash, DR Congo took a 1-0 lead into half-time, with Bryan Sipenga's seventh-minute goal the difference at the Atlanta Stadium.

Congo started confidently. In the seventh minute, England defender Jed Spence misjudged the bounce of a cross from the right, allowing Sipenga to control the ball inside the box and fire a powerful shot past Jordan Pickford.

After conceding, England dominated possession and launched repeated attacks but were repeatedly denied by Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. In the 30th minute, Mpasi made a brilliant reflex save to deny Jude Bellingham's powerful header. Marcus Rashford had a chance in the 35th minute, but his shot deflected off a Congo defender.

Congo nearly doubled their lead in the 42nd minute, but Yoane Wissa's shot struck the post. In the 44th minute, Harry Kane's penalty appeal was waved away after he collided with Mpasi.

In added time, Mpasi again became the hero, diving to save Bellingham's header from a cross and keeping the lead intact.

England dominated possession and created several chances through Bellingham, Rashford and Kane, but poor finishing and Mpasi's heroics kept them at bay. Congo were more effective in attack with quick counter-attacks and a disciplined defence.

At half-time, the score remained England 0-1 DR Congo. The second half will decide who advances to the last 16.