Spanish newspapers have dismissed England's prospects of winning the World Cup following a tense 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the group stage. Captain Harry Kane scored twice in the final 15 minutes to rescue the Three Lions from an early exit against the tournament's perceived underdogs.
DR Congo took an early lead in the seventh minute, and England struggled to find an equalizer until Kane's header in the 75th minute. He secured the win with a second goal 11 minutes later, booking England's place in the round of 16. Despite the comeback, Spanish outlet Marca suggested that England "won't get very far" in the knockout stages.
The publication noted that while Thomas Tuchel's side managed to advance, they still appear to be "missing something to truly be a title contender," referencing past tournament disappointments. England lost to Spain in the Euro 2024 final and exited the last World Cup at the quarter-final stage. Their next challenge in the World Cup is a match against co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City, with a potential quarter-final tie against Brazil or Norway.
Marca predicted a victory for Brazil over Norway, adding that while Brazil is not performing at their peak, they seem to possess a clearer game plan than England. The newspaper attributed England's saving grace to Kane, but questioned if even his talent would be enough to carry them through multiple rounds.
Kane's brace brought his World Cup goal tally to 13, surpassing Pelé and placing him sixth on the all-time list. The Bayern Munich forward was also at the center of a controversial moment in the first half when he was denied a penalty after a challenge by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. Although replays suggested contact, the referee waved away the appeal, and VAR did not intervene.
According to Marca, this incident exemplified a correct application of VAR, allowing the on-field referee's decision to stand in the absence of a clear and obvious error. The newspaper expressed approval for this approach, contrasting it with previous tournament instances where minor fouls were subject to review.
England secured the same number of group stage points as Spain, who are preparing to face Austria in their round of 16 match. A potential meeting between England and Spain in the World Cup could only occur in the final.