Portugal were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K match at NRG Stadium in Houston on June 17. Despite taking an early lead through Joao Neves, Portugal could not hold on as Yoane Wissa scored a memorable stoppage-time equaliser, earning DR Congo their first-ever World Cup goal and point.
The result came as a major surprise, with many expecting Portugal to comfortably begin their campaign with a victory.
Joao Neves Gives Portugal the Perfect Start
Portugal made an impressive start and broke the deadlock in just the sixth minute. Pedro Neto delivered an accurate cross from the left wing, and Joao Neves met it with a perfectly timed header that beat goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
The early goal allowed Portugal to dominate possession throughout the first half. Captain Cristiano Ronaldo remained closely marked and found limited opportunities in front of goal, while DR Congo stayed organised defensively and looked to threaten on the counterattack.
The match also carried an emotional significance for Portugal, with players wearing black armbands in memory of the late Diogo Jota. After scoring, Neves dedicated his goal by pointing towards the sky.
Yoane Wissa Creates History for DR Congo
Just before the halftime whistle, DR Congo found their breakthrough. In the fifth minute of added time, Arthur Masuaku delivered a dangerous corner into the penalty area, where Yoane Wissa rose highest to power a header into the top corner beyond Diogo Costa.
The dramatic equaliser sparked huge celebrations among the Congolese players and supporters. Wissa’s goal became the nation’s first-ever goal in FIFA World Cup history and secured a historic first point on football’s biggest stage.
Portugal Unable to Break Through
Portugal controlled much of the second half but struggled to convert possession into clear scoring chances. Head coach Roberto Martinez introduced attacking substitutes including Rafael Leao and Francisco Conceicao in search of a winning goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo came close on a few occasions but failed to find the net, while DR Congo defended with determination and discipline. As the match progressed, Portugal grew increasingly frustrated, with several bookings reflecting the rising tension.
Despite sustained pressure, DR Congo held firm until the final whistle to secure a famous draw.
Group K Standings After the Draw
The result leaves both Portugal and DR Congo with one point after their opening Group K fixture.
Portugal will next face Uzbekistan in Houston, while DR Congo travel to Guadalajara for a clash against Colombia.
For Portugal, the draw raises concerns about their finishing and attacking creativity despite boasting one of the tournament’s strongest squads. Meanwhile, DR Congo celebrated a historic achievement, proving they can compete with football’s elite and showcasing one of the biggest surprises of the early stages of the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup.