Congo DR claimed a landmark result at the FIFA World Cup 2026™, earning their first-ever World Cup point after drawing 1-1 with Portugal in Group K at Houston Stadium on Wednesday 17 June.
Portugal struck early through Joao Neves, but Yoane Wissa’s header in first-half stoppage time levelled the contest and ensured a historic day for Les Leopards, who also celebrated their first World Cup goal.
The match also carried a major milestone for Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match. It was Ronaldo’s 23rd World Cup appearance, placing him fourth on the all-time list alongside Paolo Maldini.
How the match unfolded: early Portugal lead, late first-half response
Portugal made the perfect start, taking the lead in the sixth minute. Pedro Neto delivered an inviting cross and Joao Neves rose highest to head past Lionel Mpasi for 1-0.
The opening stages belonged to Portugal, but Congo DR began to show threat of their own. After 10 minutes, Wissa fashioned their first chance, curling a left-footed effort narrowly wide of Diogo Costa’s goal.
As the half progressed, Congo DR continued to test the Portuguese backline and were rewarded in stoppage time. Arthur Masuaku floated a cross towards Wissa, who powered a header home in the 45+5 minute to make it 1-1.
The equaliser carried added significance: it was Congo DR’s first-ever FIFA World Cup™ goal, arriving 52 years after the nation made their tournament debut at the 1974 edition.
Portugal thought they had regained the advantage shortly after the restart when Joao Cancelo produced a spectacular overhead kick that found the net. However, the goal was disallowed as Cancelo had strayed offside.
Congo DR, buoyed by their leveller, kept probing. Centre-back Steve Kapuadi later headed wide as Sebastien Desabre’s side looked for a breakthrough that would have completed a famous turnaround.
Portugal continued to push for a winner, with Ronaldo firing two half-chances off target. Despite Portugal’s efforts, the match finished level at 1-1, leaving Congo DR with a historic first point and Portugal forced to settle for a draw after scoring early.
Key moments, awards and reaction
FIFA’s key stat from the match underlined the significance of Ronaldo’s appearance. At 41 years and 132 days, he became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match and the second-oldest outfield player to make an appearance at the tournament, behind Roger Milla (42 years and 39 days when he played for Cameroon against Russia on 28 June 1994).
Portugal’s Joao Neves was named the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match after opening the scoring with his sixth-minute header.
Wissa reflected on the milestone for Congo DR, saying: “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.”
Congo DR coach Sebastien Desabre praised his side’s execution and attitude: “The players showed incredible commitment and selflessness. We executed the game plan exactly as we wanted, scored from a set piece, and honestly, I am very proud of my players because they represented the Congo in a very positive way and the entire country deserves it.”
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez pointed to a shift after the opening goal: “We started the match very well. Scoring should have been a great moment, but it wasn’t. I think we lost a bit of our attacking depth, lost fluency in possession, and allowed them to regain their shape somewhat. The confidence they gained after the goal made the game very difficult, but that’s what happens at World Cups. I’m very satisfied with the team’s attitude. It wasn’t a problem of lacking commitment or heart; we kept trying until the very end. We can grow a lot from this match.”
Neves, speaking after being named player of the match, added: “It was my first World Cup match, and I’m happy with my performance. But, as I always say, what matters is the team. There are things we need to improve. What we really need are victories. The squad is united and determined to get better.”