DR CONGO EARNED A DRAW AGAINST MIGHT PORTUGAL

Match Report: Portugal 1 – 1 DR Congo

​Tournament: FIFA World Cup 2026™ (Group K Opening Match)

Date: June 17, 2026

Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, USA

​Portugal endured a frustrating start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign as they were held to a 1-1 draw by underdogs DR Congo in their opening Group K encounter.

​Early Breakthrough for Seleção

​Roberto Martínez's side made an ideal start, breaking the deadlock in just the sixth minute. Winger Pedro Neto delivered an accurate cross into the penalty area, allowing João Neves to rise highest and head home his first senior international goal. Portugal dominated initial possession, but struggling to convert dominance into clear-cut opportunities, Neves' header ultimately stood as Portugal's only shot on target for the entire match.

​DR Congo Responds with History

​DR Congo, appearing at their first World Cup since 1974 (then competing as Zaire), grew in confidence as the first half progressed. Their persistence paid off deep into first-half stoppage time (45+5'). Arthur Masuaku curled a precise cross from a corner sequence, finding an unmarked Yoane Wissa at the back post, who powered his header past the Portuguese goalkeeper. The equalizer marked a landmark moment, serving as DR Congo's first-ever FIFA World Cup goal and securing their first-ever tournament point.

​Frustration for Ronaldo in the Second Half

​The second half remained wide open, with both teams searching for a decider. DR Congo nearly took the lead when Cédric Bakambu struck the outside of the post from close range.

​Portugal's captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, making a record-breaking appearance in his sixth World Cup tournament, endured a difficult night. Fed twice in the box via clever cutbacks from substitute Francisco Conceição in the 68th and 73rd minutes, Ronaldo failed to find the target from close range on both occasions. Martínez's side also saw a spectacular bicycle kick from João Cancelo chalked off for offside.