World Cup: Ronaldo draws blanks as DR Congo hold Portugal to draw

Cristiano Ronaldo failed to sparkle as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their first match at the 2026 World Cup. The Leopards returned the world stage for the first time in 52 years, and they delivered a performance good enough to trouble the Portuguese and also earn a point in […]

Cristiano Ronaldo failed to sparkle as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their first match at the 2026 World Cup.

The Leopards returned the world stage for the first time in 52 years, and they delivered a performance good enough to trouble the Portuguese and also earn a point in the encounter despite going behind early in the match.

Joao Neves had put Portugal, one of the tournament’s favourites, in front in the sixth minute with a well-placed header from Pedro Neto’s cross, and continued to dominate possession without a major threat.

This afforded the Leopards to sneak back into the game, and they seized their moment deep into first half added time, Arthur Masuaku floated a deep cross to the back post where Yoanne Wissa’s well-timed header bulged the net for 1-1 at the break.

Cristiano Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure throughout the encounter, the 41 years old who became the oldest outfield player in World Cup history was caught offside several times, and failed to take the two opportunities presented in the second half.

Portugal continued to huff and puff, while Congo DR posed a threat on the counter as the match wore on, but both nations settled for a point apiece in Group K.

The Selecao of Portugal will face Uzbekistan next on July 23, before a final group game against Colombia on June 27.