Portugal drew 1:1 with DR Congo in their first Group K match at the 2026 World Cup. João Neves opened the scoring as early as the 6th minute, but Yoane Wissa equalised in first-half stoppage time — and that scoreline remained the final result in Houston.
Portugal vs DR Congo 1:1 (Group K)
The Portuguese started the match aggressively: João Neves headed in a cross from Pedro Neto in the 6th minute to put the ball in the net. The goal was confirmed by VAR. Roberto Martínez's side controlled the game throughout the first half, with Bruno Fernandes orchestrating attacks, but DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi kept his goal intact.
However, in first-half stoppage time the Leopards struck back: Yoane Wissa headed home a corner delivery from Arthur Masuaku in the 45+5th minute to level the score. It was DR Congo's first-ever goal in World Cup history — the country returned to the tournament for the first time since 1974.
In the second half, Portugal pushed to restore their lead: João Cancelo scored a spectacular overhead kick in the 55th minute, but VAR disallowed the goal for offside in the build-up. Cristiano Ronaldo had efforts on goal in the 68th and 74th minutes, but Mpasi remained unbeatable. DR Congo threatened in response through Cédric Bakambu. The final whistle confirmed a 1:1 draw.
Group stage implications: Portugal open their group stage campaign with one point — a surprisingly modest start for one of the tournament favourites. DR Congo have earned their first-ever World Cup point and will be contenders to advance from Group K, which also features Uzbekistan and Colombia.
Currently in progress
At 23:00 Kyiv time, the Group L match England vs Croatia kicked off (AT&T Stadium, Dallas). Results will be in the morning digest.
