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Cipenga Scores Historic Early Goal for DR Congo Against England

Brian Cipenga gave DR Congo a stunning early lead against England during their 2026 World Cup Round of 32 clash at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

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Sibinja received the ball inside the England penalty area before unleashing a low shot into the near corner. England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford failed to make the save, allowing the Leopards to take a shocking lead in just the 7th minute.

A Milestone Goal for DR Congo

This goal was historic on multiple levels for the African nation:

  • Knockout First: It marks the first-ever goal scored by DR Congo in the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup.

  • International Debut Goal: For the 28-year-old Cipenga, this striking effort represents his first-ever international goal in 10 appearances for his country.

African World Cup Records: Sibinja’s strike is officially the second-fastest goal scored by an African nation in the World Cup knockout rounds. It sits just behind Kevin-Prince Boateng’s famous goal for Ghana against the USA in 2010, which came after only five minutes.