They came to see Cristiano Ronaldo, but left Houston Stadium having witnessed a slice of football history for the Democratic Republic of the Congo. On their return to the World Cup stage after a 52-year absence, the Leopards held Portugal to a 1-1 draw to claim a maiden point at the tournament thanks to Yoane Wissa's second-half strike.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who became the second-oldest outfield player in World Cup history at 41 years and four months, failed to influence the game as his goalless streak in major tournaments extended to ten matches. João Neves had given Portugal an early lead, but it was the African side who showed greater desire, defending deep and striking back through their Newcastle United forward.
Match Summary: A Night of Firsts for DR Congo
Neves headed home from a corner after just six minutes, the Benfica midfielder connecting perfectly to give Portugal a dream start in Group K. But the expected deluge of goals never materialised. The Europeans managed just one shot on target all game – the goal itself – as DR Congo grew into the contest.
The equaliser arrived in the 64th minute. Wissa, who scored 11 Premier League goals for Newcastle last season, latched onto a long ball and held off a defender before firing low past Diogo Costa. It was the first World Cup goal for DR Congo in their history, and it sent their supporters in Houston into raptures.
Ronaldo Under Fire Again
All eyes were on Ronaldo, but the captain toiled. He missed two presentable chances – one a header wide and another a shot directly at the goalkeeper – and was often caught offside. His continued selection is a major talking point, with some fans and pundits questioning whether his presence unbalances the team.
Manager Roberto Martínez kept him on the pitch for the full 95 minutes, a decision that drew scrutiny. Ronaldo’s movement was limited, and he rarely threatened the DR Congo backline. It is now 10 major tournament games without a goal since the 2022 World Cup.
Leopards Earn Historic Point
For DR Congo, the draw represents a huge moment. Returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1974 (when they competed as Zaïre), the team displayed immense discipline. Coach Sébastien Desabre deserves immense credit for the organisation that limited Portugal to so few clear openings.
Quick Facts
Result: Portugal 1-1 DR Congo
Goalscorers: Neves 6' (POR), Wissa 64' (DRC)
Venue: Houston Stadium
Attendance: 67,200
Group K Standings: Portugal 1 pt, DR Congo 1 pt (others TBC)
The result leaves Portugal with a point ahead of their next fixture, while DR Congo can realistically dream of advancing. For the neutrals, it was a reminder that World Cup history is written by the underdogs.
Key Takeaways
- DR Congo secured a first-ever World Cup point in their second tournament appearance, ending a 52-year drought.
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s struggles in front of goal continued, extending a worrying drought in major tournaments.
- Yoane Wissa’s equaliser marked DR Congo’s maiden World Cup goal, a moment of national pride.
- Portugal’s attack looked disjointed, with only one shot on target and heavy reliance on an ageing icon.
- Group K remains wide open, with all four teams still in contention after the first round of matches.
Read the full match report at The Guardian.
