Houston. Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening Group K match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, as the African side produced a disciplined display to earn a valuable point.
Portugal made a bright start and took the lead after just six minutes.
Midfielder João Neves headed home from a Pedro Neto cross to give the European side an early advantage.
The Portuguese controlled possession for long periods and dominated the ball throughout the first half.
However, they were unable to convert that superiority into further goals.
DR Congo remained organised and gradually settled into the contest.
Their persistence was rewarded in first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa rose to head in from an Arthur Masuaku delivery, sending the teams into the break level.
The second half was more evenly balanced.
DR Congo looked dangerous on the counter-attack and came close to taking the lead when Cédric Bakambu struck the post.
Portugal, meanwhile, struggled to create clear opportunities despite introducing fresh attacking options from the bench.
Veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo, appearing at a record-equalling sixth World Cup, missed two good chances as Portugal searched for a winner.
The African side defended strongly and held firm until the final whistle.
The result represents a historic achievement for DR Congo, who are competing at the World Cup for the first time since 1974.
The point leaves them well placed in a competitive Group K that also includes Colombia and Uzbekistan.
Portugal will next face Uzbekistan on 23 June, while DR Congo take on Colombia on the same day as both teams seek their first victory of the tournament.
