DR Congo secured their first-ever FIFA World Cup point after battling to a 1-1 draw against Portugal in their Group K opener, with striker Yoane Wissa scoring a historic equaliser.
Portugal appeared on course for victory after taking an early lead through Joao Neves, but the Leopards responded strongly and were rewarded just before half-time to earn a memorable result.
The draw marked a significant milestone for DR Congo, who were making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, when they competed as Zaire and lost all three matches.
Wissa cancels out Portugal’s early advantage
Portugal made a bright start and broke the deadlock in the sixth minute when Neves headed home from a cross delivered by Pedro Neto.
Despite dominating possession, Roberto Martinez’s side struggled to create clear-cut opportunities and failed to turn their control of the game into goals.
DR Congo capitalised on that inefficiency in first-half stoppage time. Left unmarked inside the box, Wissa rose to meet a cross from Arthur Masuaku and headed past the goalkeeper from close range for his country’s first-ever World Cup goal.
Ronaldo denied on historic night
The match also saw Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo make history by matching Lionel Messi with appearances at six World Cup tournaments.
However, Ronaldo was unable to become the first player to score in six different World Cups.
The veteran forward came closest midway through the second half when he twice met low cut-backs from substitute Francisco Conceicao, but narrowly missed the target on both occasions.
DR Congo impress against favourites
Ranked 46th in the world, DR Congo looked organised defensively and dangerous on the counterattack throughout the contest.
They nearly claimed all three points when experienced striker Cedric Bakambu struck the post, while Portugal managed just one shot on target during the entire match — Neves’ early opener.
The result leaves Group K finely balanced and represents a major confidence boost for DR Congo as they continue their World Cup campaign.
