The Democratic Republic of Congo earned a historic result on Wednesday, holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their Group K opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, denying Cristiano Ronaldo a winning start in his record-equalling sixth appearance at the tournament.
Portugal took an early lead through João Neves, who powered home a header in the sixth minute from a Pedro Neto cross, setting the tone for a dominant start from the European side. However, despite controlling possession for much of the game, Portugal failed to convert their superiority into additional goals.
DR Congo, making their first World Cup appearance since 1974 when they competed as Zaire, grew into the contest and found a breakthrough in first-half stoppage time. Yoane Wissa rose unmarked to head past Diogo Costa, scoring a landmark equaliser and registering what is believed to be the country’s first-ever World Cup goal.
The goal sparked emotional celebrations among players, officials, and travelling supporters, as the African side held firm in the second half to secure a famous point against one of the tournament favourites.
Cristiano Ronaldo, aged 41, struggled to influence the match and was largely contained throughout, unable to replicate the decisive impact expected from him on the world stage. Portugal, meanwhile, continued to press but lacked sharpness in the final third.
The match also carried emotional undertones for Portugal, whose players wore wristbands in tribute to late teammate Diogo Jota, who reportedly died in a car accident last year.
DR Congo’s performance was particularly notable given reports of disrupted preparations linked to health challenges back home, making their resilient display and historic result even more significant.
