Kane: England's DR Congo win best attacking display yet
Captain Harry Kane praised the team's creativity and fluidity after the 2-1 victory in Atlanta, signaling a tactical shift under new guidance.
Captain Harry Kane praised the team's creativity and fluidity after the 2-1 victory in Atlanta, signaling a tactical shift under new guidance.
The match marked England’s fourth outing of the 2026 World Cup and the first under fresh tactical guidance, with Kane’s post-match comments underscoring a shift in identity toward a more fluid, attacking shape. This performance follows a pattern of gradual improvement in England’s attacking output during the tournament. After a sluggish start in the group stage, where they managed just two goals in three games, the side has now found a rhythm that blends individual brilliance with collective movement.
The Saka-Foden axis, in particular, has become the focal point of England’s resurgence, with both players combining to create chances that have stretched even disciplined defences. England’s attacking evolution reflects broader tactical trends in modern international football, where high pressing and quick transitions are increasingly prioritised. The side’s ability to adapt to these demands while maintaining composure under pressure suggests a deeper tactical understanding under their new set-up.
Pundits have noted how the team’s pressing triggers and positional rotations have become more refined, allowing them to break down stubborn blocks without resorting to long-ball tactics. The victory also exposed the lingering fragility in England's backline that Mbemba exploited, serving as a reminder that high pressing leaves space behind. However, the response to conceding was telling; instead of panicking, the team controlled the tempo, a psychological shift from the frantic finishes of previous years.
This resilience is just as vital as the slick passing, proving they can manage a game even when the defensive structure is breached. Kane’s role evolution has been central to this structural change, with the captain dropping deep to function as a playmaker rather than staying strictly on the shoulder of the last defender. This movement pulls opposition center-backs out of position, creating the vertical lanes that Saka and Foden exploited.
’ The win keeps England in the hunt at the World Cup and sets up a high-stakes knockout tie where their new-found attacking rhythm will be tested against sterner opposition. The Three Lions’ ability to sustain this level of performance will be crucial as they face teams with more defensive structure and tactical discipline in the knockout rounds. Read at BBC Football
Kane’s endorsement of England’s attacking display signals confidence ahead of deeper World Cup knockout rounds, where creativity and cohesion will be critical. A fluid, goal-laden performance against DR Congo suggests the Three Lions are evolving into a side capable of unlocking stubborn defences under pressure. That attacking identity could be the difference between progression and a premature exit when the competition intensifies. England’s tactical shift under new guidance appears to be paying dividends, with the side now showing the flexibility to adapt to different opponents while maintaining a clear attacking philosophy.
BBC Footballbbc.co.uk1 Jul, 18:40en-gb
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