The Lionesses may have earned their 2-1 victory over DR Congo, but the real question on everyone's mind is whether they can replicate this level of performance against top-tier opposition. And that's where captain Harry Kane comes in – the England talisman who once again proved why he's the difference-maker in a tight spot.
The match was a thrilling rollercoaster ride from start to finish, with England taking the lead only for DR Congo to hit back and level the scores. But when it mattered most, Kane stepped up to the plate with his trademark composure and clinical finishing, netting the winner and silencing the doubters who've been questioning his indispensability to the team.
Manager Thomas Tuchel was left scratching his head post-match, acknowledging that his squad needs to raise their game significantly if they're going to take on the best of the rest. It's a message that will resonate with fans everywhere – we all want England to dominate, not just scrape together wins by the skin of their teeth.
Now comes the acid test: Mexico await, and it won't be easy. Los Albiceleste are known for their cunning tactics and physicality, which will push England to their limits and expose any weaknesses in their game plan. The performance against DR Congo may have been a wake-up call, but it's time for Tuchel's team to put words into action.
As fans, we're torn between elation at the win and concern about what this means for our national team's future prospects. Can they develop a more robust attacking threat beyond Kane's heroics? Can they shore up their defensive vulnerabilities before it's too late? The answers will become clearer in the coming days as Tuchel works his magic behind the scenes.
The stakes are high, and England can't afford to rely on individual brilliance for much longer. They need to find a more sustainable way of winning, one that doesn't put all their eggs in the Kane basket. If they succeed, it'll be music to our ears – but if not, we're in for a long and disappointing ride.
Source: Team management statements, Match reports