Ronaldo Flatters to Deceive as Portugal Slump to DR Congo Draw

Portugal kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign with a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo. Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41, started but failed to scor...

Jun 17, 2026 3 min read 41 views

Ronaldo Flatters to Deceive as Portugal Slump to DR Congo Draw

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Match Summary

Portugal kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign with a frustrating 1-1 draw against DR Congo at Houston Stadium. Joao Neves headed the Seleção into an early lead, but a stubborn Congolese side levelled through Yoane Wissa's historic strike just before half-time.

Despite dominating possession, Portugal managed only one shot on target – Neves's goal – and were repeatedly thwarted by a disciplined DR Congo defence. Cristiano Ronaldo, the focal point of the attack, spurned two clear-cut chances that could have secured victory.

Ronaldo's Waning Influence

All eyes were on Cristiano Ronaldo as he began his sixth World Cup, but the 41-year-old cut an increasingly isolated figure. He touched the ball just 29 times – only the substituted Bernardo Silva (26) had fewer among outfield starters – and his movement often clogged the space for Portugal’s talented midfield five.

"More often than not, Ronaldo appeared to just be taking up space," noted Sky Sports' Callum Bishop. "Of the Portugal starting XI, only Bernardo Silva touched the ball on fewer occasions... He took 26 touches to Ronaldo's 29. He was also substituted at half-time. Ronaldo played the full 90."

Ronaldo missed the target from inside 10 yards in the 68th minute, then fired wide again from a similar position five minutes later. The frustration was palpable; this was a stark contrast to the previous day’s hat-trick from Lionel Messi and braces for Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.

DR Congo’s Resilience and What It Means

DR Congo, playing their first World Cup match since 1974 as Zaïre, were well-drilled and physically imposing. Yoane Wissa of Newcastle United applied a composed finish from close range after Portugal failed to clear a corner. The Leopards also hit the woodwork through Cedric Bakambu and defended resolutely to earn a deserved point.

The result leaves Group K wide open. Portugal, tipped by many to top the group, must now regroup before facing Uzbekistan on Tuesday. A repeat of this disjointed display will invite more pressure, especially with Ronaldo’s role under intensifying scrutiny. As FourFourTwo bluntly argues, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is increasingly seen as a liability rather than an asset.

Key Takeaways

Cristiano Ronaldo’s goalless run in major tournaments extends to 10 games; his starting spot is now a major tactical question.
Portugal failed to create meaningful chances beyond the early goal, exposing a disjointed attack.
DR Congo displayed defensive steel and historic promise on their World Cup return.
Manager Roberto Martinez faces a critical decision on whether to bench his captain for the Uzbekistan clash.