​Harry Kane left frustrated after England captain’s penalty appeal against DR Congo was rejected by the officials. Thomas Tuchel’s side, ranked favorites to advance from the round of 32, trailed early when Brian Cipenga struck for DR Congo in Atlanta, setting a rapid tempo for the visitors. As the half neared its end and a leveller seemed within reach, Kane burst past the defense and tried to round goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. Kane appeared to feel contact from the Congo keeper and went down, but referee Adham Makhadmeh signaled a dive and did not award a penalty. The incident was briefly reviewed by video assistant referee Khamis Al Marri, who chose not to show the pitchside footage to the on-field official and instructed him to maintain his decision. BBC pundit and former England striker Alan Shearer argued the decision should have gone in Kane’s favor, saying there was no doubt about contact and that a goalkeeping rush with hands exposed justified a penalty, even if Kane exaggerated contact.