By Ben Efe 17.6.2026
Despite having all the ball possessions Portugal failed to find a way around Congo DR Leopards in their opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which ended 1-1 in Houston, USA.
Cristiano Ronaldo making his sixth World Cup appearance the second player to do so, had a frustrating afternoon as he attempted to outdo his contemporary Lionel Messi who scored a hat trick against Algeria on Tuesday.
Ronaldo had two chances to score he missed the targets at both moments of delivery.
Portugal went ahead with Joao Neves’ sixth minute goal through a header from a perfectly delivered cross by Pedro Neto. That was all the attacking threat Portugal posted against the Congolese team returning to the world cup after their disastrous debut in 1974.
They held on tight to their game plan and occasionally pushed back with dangerous counter attacks. Congo DR had their first chance after 10 minutes when Wissa curled a left-footed effort narrowly wide of Diogo Costa’s goal.
They continued to threaten the Portuguese backline and, moments before half-time, the Leopards snatched an equaliser. Arthur Masuaku floated a cross towards Yoane Wissa, who powered a header home. It was a historic moment: Congo DR’s first ever World Cup goal.
Congo DR, buoyed by their leveller, continued to probe and centre-back Steve Kapuadi headed wife.
Both sides were unable to break the deadlock in the second half leaving Portugal frustrated.
Speaking on the game goal scorer Wissa said:”I’m obviously very proud today because we’ve worked extremely hard.
“It was a very difficult match against a team that was stronger than us. But we showed courage and resilience. “Scoring our first goal is a huge source of pride because it reflects the character of this team.
“The most important thing now is to keep going.”
