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Anthony Gordon has lavished praise on his England team-mate Harry Kane, suggesting the captain is currently performing at a level comparable to Lionel Messi. Gordon’s remarks came after Kane’s stunning late double that saved England from a shock World Cup elimination at the hands of DR Congo, underscoring his composure, consistency, and world-class mentality on football’s biggest stage.

England rescued from the brink

DR Congo appeared on the verge of a monumental upset after taking the lead just seven minutes into the contest. However, Kane equalised in the 75th minute and then netted the winner five minutes from time, sealing a 2-1 victory for England.

The brace brought Kane’s tally to five goals in the tournament, drawing him level with Erling Haaland and just one behind Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot standings. Gordon, who came off the bench to provide assists for both goals, was full of admiration for the skipper. “It’s incredible to be around him every day because when you’re surrounded by someone operating at the elite level, he’s truly at the very top of football,” Gordon said.

Kane carrying club form into the World Cup

Gordon highlighted that Kane’s extraordinary World Cup performances are a direct reflection of his relentless work ethic. The striker enjoyed a record-breaking year with Bayern Munich, scoring 61 goals in 51 appearances—his best-ever scoring season—defying expectations at 32 years of age.

“He’s having a season that’s only ever been matched by Leo Messi, the greatest footballer of all time. That says everything about the level he’s playing at,” Gordon noted. “It’s not by chance—it’s his consistency, his daily dedication, the way he approaches every finishing drill with passion and seriousness. He never misses a beat. It’s a privilege to witness, and he’s an inspiration to every one of us.”

‘He plays at such a high level’

Despite England’s early setback and growing pressure during the match, Gordon insisted that the team always believed they would turn things around. He also expressed complete faith in Kane when the decisive opportunity arrived late in the game. “As soon as he struck it, I knew it was going in. I was already celebrating,” Gordon recalled. “Anyone at this level can score a great goal, but it’s the consistency that sets him apart. Every day in training, every game he’s phenomenal. He plays at such a high, high level.”

Looking ahead to Mexico

England now shift their focus to a crucial Round of 16 clash against co-hosts Mexico, buoyed by the confidence of their dramatic comeback win. With Kane in prolific form and sitting on five goals for the tournament, the Three Lions will depend on his ruthless finishing as they aim for a quarter-final meeting with either Brazil or Norway. Gordon and the rest of the squad will need to maintain their intensity and work ethic to overcome Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium.