TEXAS (Kashmir English): Portugal and DR Congo played out a dramatic 1-1 draw in their opening FIFA World Cup Group K match at Houston Stadium in Texas on Wednesday.
Portugal started in dominant fashion and Midfielder João Neves headed home in the 6th minute off an excellent cross from Pedro Neto.
Despite giving up 75% of possession to Portugal, DR Congo stayed dangerous on counterattacks.
Deep into first-half stoppage time (45+5′), Newcastle forward Yoane Wissa headed in an equalizer from an Arthur Masuaku corner. This also marked DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup goal.
Portugal struggled in World Cup game
In the second half, Portugal struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against the Congolese defence led by captain Chancel Mbemba.
Multiple substitutions—including bringing on Rafael Leão and Gonçalo Ramos—failed to break the deadlock as a resilient, well-marshaled Congo showed confidence.
On the other side, Cristiano Ronaldo, aged 41, became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match as he registered his record-equalling sixth tournament appearance.
However, he was heavily contained by the defence and missed his best chance in the 69th minute, kicking wide.
The match result earns DR Congo their first-ever World Cup point in tournament history, while leaving a highly-favorite Portuguese squad frustrated.
Portugal will be playing their upcoming group fixtures against Colombia and Uzbekistan.
