DR Congo produced a spirid performance to hold Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a historic point against one of Europe’s football powerhouses.
Portugal made the perfect start when midfielder Joao Neves headed home in the sixth minute from a Pedro Neto cross to give Roberto Martinez’s side an early lead.
However, despite dominating possession for much of the game, Portugal struggled to create clear scoring opportunities and failed to build on their advantage.
Wissa Scores Historic Goal
DR Congo punished Portugal’s wastefulness in first-half stoppage time when Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa rose unmarked inside the box to head home Arthur Masuaku’s cross.
The goal marked DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup goal and sparked celebrations among the African nation’s supporters.
The result also represented a significant milestone for a country whose only previous World Cup appearance came in 1974, when they competed as Zaire and lost all three matches without scoring a goal.
Ronaldo Denied History
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo made history by appearing in his sixth FIFA World Cup, matching Argentina star Lionel Messi’s record.
The 41-year-old, however, was unable to find the net as he chased another landmark — becoming the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments.
Ronaldo came closest midway through the second half when he connected with two low crosses from substitute Francisco Conceicao but sent both efforts narrowly wide.
DR Congo Impress
Ranked 46th in the world, DR Congo defended resolutely and looked dangerous on the counterattack throughout the contest.
Cedric Bakambu nearly put the Africans ahead when he struck the post from close range, although the effort would not have counted due to an earlier foul. He later fired another chance wide as DR Congo continued to trouble Portugal’s defence.
Portugal’s only shot on target during the entire match remained Neves’ early header, highlighting the team’s struggles in the final third despite boasting a wealth of attacking talent.
Valuable Point for the Leopards
The draw gives DR Congo a valuable point at the start of their World Cup campaign and underlines the progress the nation has made on the international stage.
For Portugal, the result will be viewed as a missed opportunity as they seek to progress from the group and mount a serious challenge for the title.
Both teams will now turn their attention to their next group-stage fixtures as the battle for qualification intensifies.
