FIFA World Cup 2026 underdogs DR Congo created history on Wednesday as Les Léopards came back from behind to score and earned a point with a memorable 1-1 draw against Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in a fascinating Group K clash at Houston Stadium.
While much of the attention before kick-off focused on Ronaldo's latest record-breaking appearance, it was DR Congo who left with the biggest smiles. Yoane Wissa's first-half equaliser ensured the African side walked away with a result that will be remembered for generations.
The Portugal vs DR Congo Match Result denied Roberto Martinez's side a winning start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign and handed Les Léopards one of the greatest moments in the nation's football history.
Ronaldo's Record Night Begins Brightly
The match carried special significance for Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who became the oldest outfield player ever to start a FIFA World Cup match at 41 years.
The Portuguese icon was making his 23rd World Cup appearance, drawing level with Italian legend Paolo Maldini on the tournament's all-time appearance list.
Portugal looked determined to celebrate the occasion with a victory and took the lead after just six minutes.
Pedro Neto delivered a teasing cross into the penalty area and Joao Neves rose highest to power a header beyond Lionel Mpasi. The early breakthrough appeared to set the tone as Portugal dominated possession and controlled the opening exchanges.
However, DR Congo gradually settled well into the contest and started raising questions of the Portuguese defence.
Yoane Wissa produced the first warning sign when he curled a left-footed effort narrowly wide after ten minutes, signalling the intent of Sebastien Desabre's side.
Wissa Creates History
As half-time approached, Portugal appeared to take a slender advantage into the dressing room. However, DR Congo produced a heroic moment that will forever be etched into the country's football history.
Deep into first-half stoppage time, Arthur Masuaku floated an inviting cross into the area. Wissa timed his run perfectly and powered a header beyond Diogo Costa to level the score. There was no marking from the Portuguese defense as the striker was scored with a free header. Any one of the centre-backs should have marked Wissa to avoid conceding.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among the DR Congo supporters as Wissa became the first player from the nation to score at a FIFA World Cup.
It was an extraordinary achievement, arriving 52 years after the country made its only previous appearance at the tournament in 1974.
“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,” said DR Congo goalscorer Yoane Wissa.
Portugal Shocked
Portugal thought they had restored their lead shortly after the restart through a spectacular moment of skill from Joao Cancelo.
The full-back produced an acrobatic overhead kick that found the back of the net, only for celebrations to be cut short after the assistant referee's flag signalled offside.
DR Congo continued to push forward and nearly completed an even bigger shock when Steve Kapuadi headed narrowly wide. It looked like Portugal has lost their shape and were unable to test the African defense.
At the other end, Ronaldo searched for the goal that would have been his ninth in FIFA World Cup history. The veteran forward created two promising opportunities but failed to find the target as DR Congo's disciplined defence held firm.
Despite Portugal's late pressure, Les Léopards stood strong to secured a famous point.
Coach Sebastien Desabre praised his players after the historic result. “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,” Desabre stated.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez admitted his side lost control after their early advantage. The former Belgium tactician said, “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.”
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Joao Neves, who scored Portugal's opener and was named Player of the Match, remained focused on improvement.
“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,” the PSG star said.
Portugal vs DR Congo Match Report
Portugal vs DR Congo Result: Portugal 1-1 DR Congo
Goalscorers:
Portugal – Joao Neves (6)
DR Congo – Yoane Wissa (45+5)
While Portugal will be disappointed not to convert their early dominance into victory, DR Congo celebrated a landmark evening that delivered the nation's first-ever FIFA World Cup goal and point. For Cristiano Ronaldo, it was another record-breaking appearance, but for Les Léopards, it was a night that will forever occupy a special place in their football history.