A peak audience of 16.3 million people tuned in to watch England secure a dramatic victory over DR Congo in the World Cup on Wednesday. The match, which kicked off at 17:00 BST, was the most-watched moment on the BBC this year, averaging 14 million viewers. In addition, there were 10.4 million streams across BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website, and the app.
Harry Kane played a crucial role, scoring twice in the final 15 minutes to help England overcome an early deficit after DR Congo took the lead in the seventh minute. The live coverage page also received over 20 million views globally, including 14 million from the UK, marking the biggest day on the BBC Sport website and app since the last World Cup.
Upcoming Match Against Mexico
With this win, England advances to face Mexico in the last 16 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Monday at 01:00 BST. The game will be broadcast live on BBC One, radio, and online platforms.
The match against Mexico will be the first overnight game for UK viewers during this tournament, raising concerns among parents about how to manage viewing for school-aged children. Thomas Tuchel, England's head coach, addressed this issue, suggesting, "Write an excuse for school and let them watch. There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch. There will be a big match in four days, and we need the support of everyone, especially the children."
