World Cup 2026: huge achievement by DR Congo as they hold Portugal

17.06.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

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DR Congo

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Back on the World Cup stage after 52 years away, DR Congo made a sensational statement. Trailing early to Portugal, the Leopards managed to withstand the Seleção’s dominance and snatch a precious draw thanks to a historic goal from Yoane Wissa.

DR Congo caused a major upset in their World Cup comeback by holding Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal to a 1-1 draw on Wednesday in Houston, on the opening day of Group K. Despite being dominated for long stretches, the Leopards showed remarkable resilience and team spirit to secure a vital point.

See also: 2026 World Cup: DR Congo holds Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal at halftime!

Portugal got off to a dream start with João Neves opening the scoring in the 6th minute. However, Roberto Martínez’s men, despite controlling nearly 80% of possession, could never put the game to bed. Right before halftime, Yoane Wissa wrote his name in Congolese football history, heading home the nation’s first-ever World Cup goal from a pinpoint Arthur Masuaku corner.

In the second half, the Congolese stood firm against relentless Portuguese attacks, with Chancel Mbemba in commanding form and Cristiano Ronaldo kept completely under wraps. The Leopards even thought they’d pulled off the ultimate upset when Bakambu went close, only for his chance to be ruled out for a prior foul. DR Congo will face Colombia on June 23, while Portugal takes on Uzbekistan on June 23 as well, in what is already a pivotal second round of Group K action.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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