Portugal begin their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Group K in Houston. The match opens with Portugal taking the lead in the sixth minute: João Neves heads home from Pedro Neto’s cross. DR Congo respond and gradually grow into the game, with Yoane Wissa going close before converting in first-half stoppage time. Wissa powers in a header, cancelling out Neves’s earlier goal and scoring DR Congo’s first-ever goal at a World Cup, while also giving them their first point at the finals after a 52-year absence since the country’s last appearance.
Cristiano Ronaldo, appearing as Portugal’s captain and record-equalling sixth World Cup outfield starter, has limited impact beyond a couple of half-chances, with multiple reports describing Portugal as having trouble creating clear chances despite controlling phases of play. An overhead-kick from João Cancelo early in the second half is ruled out for offside. DR Congo defend resolutely and hold on to secure the historic result, leaving Portugal to settle for a point rather than a win.
