Stay with us throughout the evening as we bring you live updates, key moments, goals, and reaction from Portugal's World Cup opener against DR Congo. Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2026 World Cup campaign began with disappointment as the Democratic Republic of Congo battled to a deserved 1-1 draw, claiming its first World Cup point in 52 years after a determined display. While Portugal arrived as the clear favorite, the African nation refused to be intimidated and produced one of the opening round’s biggest surprises. The match could hardly have started better for Portugal. Joao Neves opened the scoring inside the opening six minutes, meeting a perfectly delivered cross from Pedro Neto with a precise header that left goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi with little chance. The early breakthrough appeared to settle Portugal, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and the rest of the attacking unit looking ready to take control. Instead of collapsing after conceding, DR Congo responded with remarkable confidence. Yoane Wissa narrowly missed with an early effort before Cedric Bakambu also threatened as the Leopards gradually found belief against one of Europe’s strongest sides. Portugal still created opportunities through the creativity of Bruno Fernandes, whose excellent pass released Nuno Mendes, only for Mpasi to make an impressive save. Despite dominating possession, Portugal struggled to produce the cutting edge expected from a squad packed with attacking talent. Joao Neves #15 of Portugal celebrates after scoring Yoane Wissa makes history with Cristiano Ronaldo unable to leave own mark The reward for DR Congo‘s persistence arrived just before halftime. From a corner kick, Yoane Wissa escaped his marker and powered a header beyond Diogo Costa, scoring DR Congo’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal and leveling the contest at 1-1. The equalizer represented far more than a goal. It was a historic moment for a nation making its first World Cup appearance since 1974, proving that disciplined defending and clinical finishing could trouble one of the tournament’s favorites despite enjoying only a small share of possession. A moment 52 years in the making 🙌Congo DR are back at the @FIFAWorldCup 🇨🇩 pic.twitter.com/SrPO9IAAUa— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 17, 2026 Portugal attempted to increase the tempo after the break, introducing Francisco Conceiçao to provide fresh attacking energy. The substitute immediately became involved, while Joao Cancelo briefly believed he had restored Portugal’s lead before his effort was ruled out for offside. As the second half developed, Cristiano Ronaldo searched tirelessly for the decisive moment. The veteran forward finally received a dangerous pass inside the area but could not adjust his body quickly enough to steer the ball into the corner, leaving him still waiting for his first goal of a sixth FIFA World Cup appearance. Yoane Wissa #20 of Congo DR celebrates scoring Valuable point for both teams to build upon When the referee brought the match to an end, DR Congo celebrated a memorable 1-1 draw that felt like a victory, while Portugal was left reflecting on an opportunity missed. The result immediately improves on DR Congo’s difficult World Cup campaign more than five decades ago, when it lost all three matches without scoring. Portugal will expect to improve in its remaining Group K fixtures, particularly with Cristiano Ronaldo still leading the attack alongside an immensely talented squad. Meanwhile, Yoane Wissa’s historic equalizer will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the opening round, giving DR Congo genuine belief that qualification for the knockout stage is within reach.