Was Harry Kane and England Wrongfully Denied a Penalty? Did VAR make a Mistake? Explained

In a tense FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 encounter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on July 1, 2026, England find themselves behind at half-time against a resilient DR Congo side.

The Three Lions, who topped Group L with seven points, entered as clear favorites but were stunned early by the Leopards, who reached the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

DR Congo struck first in the 7th minute when Brian Cipenga finished clinically from the edge of the box after a precise assist from Chancel Mbemba, beating Pickford at the near post. The early goal rattled England, who struggled to find rhythm despite enjoying 59% possession. Jude Bellingham received a yellow card in the 19th minute, while Noah Sadiki was booked for DR Congo in the 28th. England created several chances, with Bellingham and Kane both going close, but DR Congo defended stoutly. Yoane Wissa hit the post in the 42nd minute after a dangerous counter.

Harry Kane and England denied a Penalty?

The most controversial moment came around the latter stages when Harry Kane went down in the box following contact from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. While it appeared the keeper touched Kane as he advanced, the referee and VAR ruled no penalty, deeming Kane already off-balance and falling. The decision left the England captain and fans frustrated.

VAR checked it and despite the argument of a probable penalty, it can also be deemed as a right decision as Kane was already off-balance and was going down. The goalkeeper had contact with the England skipper and can consider himself lucky. Despite that, the DR Congo keeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau has made a couple of stunning saves.

And interestingly, the referee didn't penalize Harry Kane also if he deemed that a dive, thus keeping it an event to debate later, surely if England lose the match.

"Harry Kane was making it look a bit theatrical. There is just a slight touch and VAR has gone with referee's call. It was not a clear and obvious error," said former Bengaluru FC coach Ashley Westwood on ZEE5.

England showed improvement in the closing stages of the first half but must improve their finishing and break down DR Congo's organized defense in the second period. The winner will face co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16.