In their opening match of this World Cup, Portugal were held to a draw by DR Congo on Wednesday at NRG Stadium in Houston. The Seleção had made the best possible start thanks to João Neves, who scored in the 6th minute, before Yoane Wissa equalized just before halftime. Final score: 1-1.
João Neves launches Portugal
Portugal struck early. From a Pedro Neto cross, PSG player João Neves headed home to open the scoring in the 6th minute. Roberto Martínez's men then took control of the match, maintaining their lead and creating several opportunities in the Congolese half. DR Congo refused to give in. Despite the difficult start, the Leopards kept their defensive shape, closed down the spaces, and waited for the right moment. Portugal had possession but failed to put the game to bed.
Wissa ices the Seleção
The turning point came in first-half stoppage time. In the 45th minute, Yoane Wissa rose to meet a corner and headed home past Diogo Costa. DR Congo leveled the score at 1-1 before halftime, at the worst possible moment for Portugal. This goal held particular significance: it was DR Congo's first-ever World Cup goal. The country was returning to the competition 52 years after its previous appearance in 1974, under the name Zaire, where it finished without scoring a goal.
The Democratic Republic of Congo holds out until the end
In the second half, Portugal pressed forward to regain the lead. Roberto Martínez tried to reignite his attack, but the Congolese held firm. Lionel Mpasi secured his area, the defense cleared crosses, and the Leopards also attempted counter-attacks, notably through Cédric Bakambu. The score remained unchanged. Portugal leaves with a frustrating draw after taking an early lead. DR Congo, meanwhile, secures a crucial point on its return to the highest level of world football.
A point that carries significant weight
This 1-1 draw immediately puts Portugal under pressure in Group K. The Seleção aimed for a controlled start; they will now have to address their lack of efficiency. DR Congo, for their part, achieved a pivotal result: first goal, first point, and a solid performance against one of Europe's heavyweights.
