DR Congo Stuns Portugal with Shocking 1-1 World Cup Draw
Democratic Republic of Congo made a triumphant return to the FIFA World Cup after a 52‑year hiatus, holding the UEFA Nations League champions Portugal to a 1‑1 draw in their Group K opener.
The result continues Portugal’s disappointing record in World Cup opening games, with just one victory in their last five tournament curtain‑raisers.
Portugal struck first when João Neves met Pedro Neto’s cross inside six minutes, heading the ball home for his fourth goal in two competitive internationals.
DR Congo answered quickly. Yoane Wissa forced a wide effort before Cédric Bakambu saw a shot blocked as the Africans searched for an equaliser.
Despite a creative midfield, Portugal found it hard to create clear chances. Bruno Fernandes slipped a pass to Nuno Mendes, but goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi reacted swiftly to deny the attempt. The Congolese defence held firm and gradually grew into the match.
Just before halftime, the Leopards levelled. Wissa arrived unmarked at a corner and powered a header past Diogo Costa, scoring DR Congo’s first ever World Cup goal. Although they enjoyed only a modest share of possession, the goal reflected their rising confidence and organisation.
After the break, Portugal pushed for a winner. Francisco Conceição came on and immediately threatened. João Cancelo thought he had restored the lead with an acrobatic finish, only for the offside flag to halt the celebration.
At the other end, Bakambu rattled the post during a dangerous attack, but play was stopped for a foul in the build‑up. Cristiano Ronaldo later had the best chance of the match, failing to steer Conceição’s cross into the net.
Both sides chased a late winner, but neither could break the deadlock, leaving the match level. The point represents a major step forward for DR Congo, who lost all three games without scoring in their previous World Cup appearance.
With Uzbekistan and Colombia also in Group K, the Leopards have given themselves genuine hope of advancing to the knockout rounds.
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