DR Congo hold Portugal 1-1 as Wissa scores historic World Cup goal

Wednesday, June 17, 2026Confirmed

Sports Desk

What we know

Democratic Republic of the Congo earned its first World Cup point in 52 years by holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw on Wednesday in Houston, with Yoane Wissa’s stoppage-time first-half header canceling João Neves’ early opener. Congo, back at the finals for the first time since appearing as Zaire in 1974, also scored its first World Cup goal.

Cristiano Ronaldo started his record-equalling sixth World Cup but missed two clear second-half chances as Portugal managed only the Neves header on target. Portugal next faces Uzbekistan back in Houston; Congo travels to face Colombia in Mexico.

What's confirmed

Final: Portugal 1-1 DR Congo at NRG Stadium, Houston (AP/Al Jazeera/Sky Sports/FIFA).
Neves 6' header; Wissa 45+5' header — Congo’s first World Cup goal and point (AP/FIFA/Al Jazeera).
Ronaldo started full match in sixth World Cup; Portugal next Uzbekistan; Congo next Colombia (AP/Al Jazeera).
Crowd ~68,777; Congo first finals appearance since 1974 as Zaire (AP/FIFA).

What's still developing

Whether Roberto Martínez reshuffles around Ronaldo after a single shot on target.
How Congo builds on the point against Colombia in Group K.

Sources

AP News — Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal held to a 1-1 draw by Congo at the World Cup link
Al Jazeera — Portugal held to draw by DR Congo in World Cup 2026 opener link
Sky Sports — Portugal 1-1 DR Congo — Ronaldo struggles in disappointing opener link
FIFA — Wissa earns Congo DR historic point against Portugal link