England's tense FIFA World Cup win over DR Congo brought in the BBC's biggest live audience of 2026. The dramatic match saw Harry Kane score twice, securing a late win for the team.
The match brought in a peak audience of 16.3 million, averaging 14 million viewers, making it the most-watched moment on the BBC this year so far.
Digital engagement was similarly high, with the live coverage generating 10.4 million streams across BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website, and the BBC Sport app.
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The live coverage page on the BBC Sport website and app was viewed more than 20 million times globally, 14 million of which were in the UK.
The BBC reports that the FIFA World Cup coverage accounts for more than a third of all hours streamed on BBC iPlayer during the final week of the group stage at 34%.
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BBC director of sport Alex Kay-Jelski said in a statement: "These are extraordinary audience figures that show the BBC is the place the nation comes together for the biggest sporting moments.
"England's dramatic victory captured millions across TV, iPlayer, BBC Sport digital platforms and social media, with audiences consuming the tournament in record numbers.
"Whether it's premium UHD coverage, new immersive experiences or world-class analysis, we're proud to be delivering the moments that matter to audiences wherever, and however they choose to follow the tournament, as England's World Cup journey continues."
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England's next match takes place on Monday at 1am UK time against Mexico in the Round of 16, with live coverage continuing on BBC One and iPlayer.
Analysis will take place before and after the match from Kelly Cates, Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards and Joe Hart live in the studio.
Alan Shearer and Guy Mowbray will also be reporting live from Mexico City.
Coverage for the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues on BBC and iPlayer.
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