England Ends 60-Year World Cup Knockout Curse

England achieved a historic milestone by coming from behind to defeat the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2-1 in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. This marks the first knockout victory for the Three Lions after trailing in a World Cup match since the 1966 final.

The last time England managed such a feat was during the 1966 World Cup final when they came back from a deficit against West Germany to win 4-2 after extra time, securing their only World Cup title to date.

This curse was broken thanks to a brace from captain Harry Kane, who led his team to victory after an early setback, granting England a place in the Round of 16 and ending a six-decade wait for a knockout win after conceding the first goal.

This achievement stands as one of the most significant milestones in England's football history, evoking memories of 1966 and keeping fans hopeful that this victory could be a springboard towards competing for the World Cup title for the second time in the history of the 'Three Lions'.