Portugal were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by an impressive DR Congo side in their opening FIFA World Cup match, as Yoane Wissa’s historic goal earned the African nation a valuable point.
Portugal made the perfect start when João Neves headed home in the sixth minute after connecting with a cross from Pedro Neto to give the European side an early advantage.
Despite dominating possession for much of the match, Portugal struggled to create meaningful chances and failed to build on their lead.
DR Congo grew into the contest and found a deserved equaliser in first-half stoppage time. Arthur Masuaku delivered an inviting cross into the box and Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa rose unmarked to head past Diogo Costa, scoring DR Congo’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal.
The result marked a significant moment for the Central African nation, whose only previous World Cup appearance came in 1974 when they competed as Zaire and lost all three matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo also made history by appearing in his sixth World Cup finals, matching Lionel Messi’s record. However, the 41-year-old was unable to find the net as he continues his pursuit of becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups.
Ronaldo came closest midway through the second half but narrowly missed the target with two opportunities created by substitute Francisco Conceição.
DR Congo defended resolutely throughout the match and threatened on the counterattack, with Cedric Bakambu also creating dangerous moments as the African side demonstrated their growing strength on the international stage.
The draw leaves both teams with work to do in Group K. Portugal will next face World Cup debutants Uzbekistan, while DR Congo take on Colombia in their second group match.
