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DR Congo Secures Historic Point Against Portugal in World Cup Opener

Posted : 18 June 2026

The Democratic Republic of Congo started their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a remarkable note. The Leopards came from behind to secure a historic 1-1 draw against tournament favorites Portugal at the NRG Stadium in Houston. This memorable result earned the Central African nation their first-ever World Cup goal and tournament point.

Portugal opened the scoring early in the sixth minute of the Group K encounter. Midfielder Joao Neves timed his run perfectly to head home an accurate cross from winger Pedro Neto. The early breakthrough allowed the star-studded European giants to dominate possession and dictate the tempo.

However, the Congolese team refused to buckle under the intense pressure from their opponents. They found their dramatic equalizer deep into first-half stoppage time through striker Yoane Wissa. The Newcastle United forward outjumped his marker to plant a powerful header past Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa.

The second half saw Portugal push numbers forward in a desperate search for a winning goal. A spectacular overhead kick by fullback Joao Cancelo was chalked off by VAR for a marginal offside. Meanwhile, legendary captain Cristiano Ronaldo uncharacteristically missed two clear close-range chances inside the penalty box.

The Congolese defense stood firm against the relentless waves of star-studded Portuguese attacks. The Leopards even threatened to win the match on multiple high-speed counterattacks as time ran out. Ultimately, neither side could find a late winner before the referee blew the final whistle.

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez praised the incredible defensive resilience of his opponents after the game. He admitted his side lost their early attacking fluency but remains confident they can improve. DR Congo hero Yoane Wissa expressed massive pride in the collective character shown by his teammates.

The surprising draw leaves Group K completely open after the opening round of tournament fixtures. Portugal will look to bounce back when they face a tough Uzbekistan side on Tuesday. Simultaneously, a confident DR Congo squad prepares for their next big global challenge against Colombia.

 

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