ATLANTA, United States, July 1 (Xinhua) -- Harry Kane scored twice in the second half as England rallied from a goal down to beat DR Congo 2-1 and advance to the World Cup last 16 here on Wednesday.

Fourth-ranked England had opened its Group L campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia before being held to a goalless draw by Ghana. The Three Lions sealed top spot in Group L and advanced to the round of 32 with a victory over Panama in its final group-stage match.

DR Congo, meanwhile, secured a place in the round of 32 from Group K after drawing with Portugal, narrowly losing 1-0 to Colombia and beating Uzbekistan.

Despite a significantly lower world ranking than England, DR Congo made a fearless start and took the game to its opponent from the opening whistle. In the seventh minute, space opened up on England's right flank, and striker Brian Cipenga latched onto a pass before slotting home unmarked to put DR Congo ahead.

England grew into the game in the closing stages of the first half, and both Marcus Rashford and Jude Bellingham came close to equalizing. Despite spending more time on the defensive, DR Congo continued to attack with confidence and linked up well going forward. In the 41st minute, star forward Yoane Wissa drove into the box and rattled the right post.

England piled on the pressure in stoppage time, with Bellingham and captain Kane both creating excellent scoring opportunities. But DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was once again came to his side's rescue, making a series of crucial saves to preserve DR Congo's lead.

England continued to dominate possession after halftime, but struggled to turn its pressure into clear-cut chances. As the clock wound down, the players grew increasingly anxious and the match became more tense.

Kane then emerged as England's hero, scoring twice in little more than 10 minutes to lead his side to a dramatic comeback victory.

Kane drew England level in the 75th minute with a header from close range after meeting a cross into the box.

Eleven minutes later, the England captain produced a moment of individual quality, shaking off his marker on the edge of the box before firing a powerful shot into the net to complete the turnaround.

England now face co-host Mexico in the round of 16 on Sunday in Mexico City.