Portugal missed out on victory against the DR Congo in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup
The Portugal national team were unable to beat the DR Congo side in their opening Group K match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match at the NRG Stadium in Houston ended in a 1–1 draw.
The Portuguese opened the scoring as early as the sixth minute. João Neves headed home a cross from Pedro Neto on the left flank to put his side ahead.
However, Portugal were unable to hold onto their lead. In first-half stoppage time, Yoan Vissa headed the ball into the net following a cross from Arthur Masuaku to level the score.
This goal was the first in the history of the DR Congo national team at World Cups. This is the team’s second appearance in the World Cup finals. They first took part in the World Cup in 1974 under the name Zaire.
With this draw, the DR Congo also secured their first point in the history of their World Cup campaigns.
Cristiano Ronaldo played the entire match for Portugal. For the 41-year-old striker, this tournament marked his sixth World Cup appearance. With this, he equalled Lionel Messi’s record.
In the second round, Portugal will face Uzbekistan, whilst the DR Congo will take on Colombia.
The 2026 World Cup is being held in the USA, Mexico and Canada. For the first time in the tournament’s history, 48 national teams are taking part.
