Portugal began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in Group K on Wednesday in Houston. Joao Neves gave the European side an early lead, but Yoane Wissa equalised before half-time. The result gave DR Congo their first World Cup point since 1974.
Portugal took the lead in the sixth minute when Neves headed in a cross from Pedro Neto. The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder became the third-youngest Portuguese scorer at a World Cup.
DR Congo responded strongly and found an equaliser in the fifth minute of first-half stoppage time. Wissa powered home a header from Arthur Masuaku’s cross following a short corner.
The match remained level in the second half despite chances at both ends. DR Congo created several opportunities while Portugal struggled to regain the lead. Cristiano Ronaldo had limited influence on proceedings.
The draw marked a historic result for DR Congo, who are appearing at the tournament for the first time since 1974 when the nation competed as Zaire.
