Harry Kane was once again the man England needed most, turning a nerve-shredding World Cup night into a moment of pure relief, celebration and family emotion.
Harry Kane lifted his two-year-old son aloft and beamed as he gazed into his eyes after securing victory for England
The superstar captain gave his wife, Katie Goodland, a relieved kiss after clinching the match for England
Kane roared into the crowd after the final whilst after pushing England over the line through sheer tenacity
The England captain delivered when the pressure was at its highest, scoring twice to rescue the Three Lions from a worrying position against DR Congo and secure a dramatic 2-1 comeback win.
For much of the match, England looked in serious trouble. DR Congo stunned supporters with an early goal, leaving fans inside the stadium and millions watching at home fearing the worst. The atmosphere grew tense as England searched for a way back, with every missed chance adding to the pressure.
But Kane, so often England’s dependable figure on the biggest stage, refused to let the night slip away. His equaliser changed the mood completely before his second goal pushed England over the line and sent supporters into wild celebration.
At full-time, the roar of relief was quickly replaced by a much softer scene in the stands. Kane headed straight to his family, where he was seen sharing a touching moment with his wife Katie Goodland and their children.
Anthony Gordon kissed long-term partner Annie Keating, while clutching their two-year-old son
Jude Bellingham, 23, wrapped his arms around girlfriend Ashlyn Castro, 28
The England number ten also gave his mother Denise a tight hug
Ashlyn flashed a winning grin as she chatted with her boyfriend and two other pals
Bukayo Saka chatting with his girlfriend, Tolami Benson, who he has been in a relationship with for around six years
Saka also shared a hug with his mother, Kemi
Jordan Pickford with his wife Megan Davison, wearing a green themed England top
Ivan Toney, who was a surprise pic for Tuchel’s 26-man team at the World Cup, holds his child alongside girlfriend Katie Bio
In sweet post-match photos, the captain lifted his young son Henry into the air, smiling as he soaked in a moment far removed from the pressure of the pitch. He later showed his Man of the Match award to his children, with the whole Kane family gathering together for a proud photo after a night they will not forget.
England’s family celebrations did not stop there. Anthony Gordon, who came off the bench and played a key role in both of Kane’s goals, was also seen sharing emotional moments with his partner Annie Keating and their young son.
Jude Bellingham collapsed to the ground in ecstasy after the final whistle blew
The entire team huddled together just moments after the end of the match, with Kane delivering some rousing words
England manager Thomas Tuchel took out his earlier frustrations on an unfortunate water bottle
Jude Bellingham, who has been one of England’s standout figures throughout the tournament, embraced his girlfriend Ashlyn Castro and also shared a warm hug with his mother Denise. Bukayo Saka looked relaxed as he spent time with his fiancée Tolami Benson, while also celebrating with his mother Kemi.
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who helped keep England in the contest after the early setback, was joined by his wife Megan Davison and family as the squad’s loved ones flooded the stands with support.
The win now sets up a huge round-of-16 clash against Mexico in Mexico City, a match that is already being billed as England’s biggest test of the tournament so far.
For supporters, the emotions of the night were overwhelming. What began with frustration and fear ended with songs, smiles and belief that England’s World Cup dream is still very much alive.
And at the heart of it all was Kane — the captain, the match-winner and, after the final whistle, the proud family man sharing the victory with those closest to him.
