“He is England’s superstar” — Kane’s late brace makes him the “hero” in dramatic win over DR Congo | OneFootball

Wayne Rooney has hailed Harry Kane as a superstar after the captain's late brace helped England beat DR Congo 2-1 to keep alive their World Cup hopes.

England had endured a nightmare start against DR Congo, who shocked the Three Lions early on. Brian Cipenga fired in the opener inside Jordan Pickford's near post inside seven minutes, as the African nation sort a shock upset in their first-everWorld Cup knockout round tie.

England struggled to find their rhythm and were slack in possession throughout, with half-time boos greeting Thomas Tuchel's side from the England supporters inside Atlanta Stadium.

Congo's Lionel Mpasi Nazu produced an incredible individual effort to frustrate England, making a series of fine saves, while the Three Lions were denied a penalty when Kane went over under the goalkeeper's challenge.

Kane, however was not to be denied. The 32-year-old rose magnificently to head home Anthony Gordon's 75th-minute cross for the equaliser, before lashing home a second with just four minutes of normal time to go.

As it was against Ghana and Panama, this was England far below their best, but in Kane the side have a talisman who can decide games.

His fourth and fifth goals of the tournament move Kane within one of the Golden Boot leaders, and have booked a last-16 tie with co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium.

Rooney hails Kane after captain’s stunning brace keeps England’s World Cup dream alive

Former England captain Rooney called Kane the 'hero' of an unconvincing but vital win.

"For both goals, Harry Kane's header was a brilliant bit of movement, but the second goal was incredible," he said toBBC One.

"He is such a top player. We see all the best players perform at this World Cup.

"He is England's superstar and he is the hero for us. There are a few things we need to clean up. The main thing in knockout football is you get through."

When do England play in the World Cup last-16? Date and time for Mexico clash

England face hosts Mexico in the last-16 on Monday 6th July. The match will be held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City with kick-off 1am BST.