Portugal Held to Draw by DR Congo in World Cup Opener

In a surprising turn of events, Portugal was held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their World Cup opener. Despite an early goal from Joao Neves, the team struggled to maintain momentum, allowing DR Congo to equalize just before halftime. Cristiano Ronaldo, in his sixth World Cup, faced challenges in attack, while late efforts from substitutes failed to secure a win. This match marks a memorable moment for DR Congo, earning them a point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974. Read on for a detailed recap of the match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2026, 01:43 IST

Portugal's Frustrating Start in World Cup

In their opening match of the World Cup, Portugal faced disappointment as they were held to a 1-1 draw by the underdog team, DR Congo. The match took place on June 18 in Texas, USA, where Joao Neves initially put Portugal ahead with a goal, only for Yoane Wissa to equalize just before halftime.

Cristiano Ronaldo, participating in his sixth World Cup, struggled to make an impact, while fellow Manchester United player Bernardo Silva also had a challenging game. The Portuguese squad, considered pre-tournament favorites, failed to deliver a convincing performance.

Portugal started strong, taking the lead in the sixth minute when Pedro Neto's precise cross found Joao Neves, who scored with a powerful header, marking his fourth goal for the national team.

However, after this early success, Portugal seemed to lose their rhythm, maintaining possession without urgency and creating few opportunities, while DR Congo posed a threat on counterattacks.

Their efforts paid off in first-half stoppage time when Wissa, unmarked, headed in a cross from Arthur Masuaku, leveling the score.

In the second half, Portugal thought they had regained the lead with an acrobatic goal from Joao Cancelo, but it was disallowed for offside. DR Congo then nearly took the lead when Cedric Bakambu hit the post after overpowering Bruno Fernandes.

Late in the game, substitute Francisco Conceicao injected some energy into the Portuguese attack, creating chances for Ronaldo, but the veteran forward could not find the back of the net as Portugal struggled to finish.

Despite mounting pressure in the closing minutes, Portugal could not secure a victory, allowing DR Congo to earn a historic point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.