Ronaldo Matches World Cup Record as Portugal Stumble Against DR Congo

Posted : 18 June 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo matched a historic World Cup milestone on Tuesday, but Portugal were unable to celebrate with a victory as they were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in Houston. The 41-year-old forward equalled the record of six World Cup appearances, previously achieved by longtime rival Lionel Messi, yet his landmark outing ended in disappointment.

Portugal struggled to break down a disciplined Congolese defense throughout the contest. Joao Neves gave the European side the lead during the first half, seemingly putting them on course for a winning start. However, DR Congo responded in first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa rose to head home the equaliser, securing a historic result for his nation.

The draw immediately reignited debate over Portugal coach Roberto Martinez's continued reliance on Ronaldo in the starting lineup. Despite criticism following the veteran striker’s subdued display, Martinez firmly backed his decision, arguing that removing one of football’s greatest goalscorers would have been counterproductive in a match where Portugal desperately needed a breakthrough.

Ronaldo did not speak to the media after the final whistle but later shared a message on social media, acknowledging the disappointing result while expressing confidence that Portugal's campaign remains on track.

For DR Congo, the draw represented a landmark achievement. The result delivered the country's first-ever World Cup point and first goal at the tournament. The accomplishment was made even more remarkable by the challenges facing the nation, including the disruption caused by an Ebola outbreak during preparations for the competition.

Head coach Sebastien Desabre praised his players for their resilience and commitment, describing the achievement as a source of pride for the entire country. The team’s performance earned widespread admiration as they frustrated one of Europe’s traditional football powers.

Portugal’s players also paid tribute to former teammate Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident last year, by wearing commemorative wristbands during the match.

Elsewhere on Wednesday, Ghana secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto thanks to Caleb Yirenkyi’s stoppage-time winner. The late goal lifted Ghana level with England on three points in Group L ahead of their highly anticipated meeting in Boston on June 23.

In Group K, Colombia claimed a 3-1 victory over World Cup newcomers Uzbekistan at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca. Luis Diaz played a key role in the win, assisting Daniel Munoz’s opener before adding a goal of his own in the second half. Jaminton Campaz sealed the result with a stoppage-time header, while Abbosbek Fayzullaev etched his name into history by scoring Uzbekistan’s first-ever World Cup goal.

Ronaldo Matches World Cup Record as Portugal Stumble Against DR Congo

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