Portugal were forced to share the spoils in their opening Group K fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after DR Congo fought back to secure a deserved 1-1 draw in a tense and energetic encounter.
João Neves had given Roberto Martínez’s side an ideal start, heading home in the sixth minute after meeting a well-weighted lofted pass from Pedro Neto. The early breakthrough set the tone for Portugal’s dominance in possession, with the Europeans at one stage controlling more than 80 percent of the ball.
Despite their territorial superiority, Portugal struggled to create clear-cut openings against a well-organised Congolese backline that remained compact and disciplined under pressure.
DR Congo gradually settled into the contest and began to pose a growing threat on the break. Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu both looked lively in attack, with Wissa going close early on before Bakambu tested Portugal’s defensive structure with sharp runs and attempts around the box.
Their persistence paid off deep into first-half stoppage time. Arthur Masuaku delivered a dangerous ball into the area and Wissa reacted quickest, finishing emphatically from close range to level matters at 1-1 heading into the break.
After the restart, Portugal pushed aggressively in search of a winner. João Cancelo thought he had restored the lead, but his effort was ruled out for offside, while Cristiano Ronaldo came close twice—first firing narrowly wide and later seeing a shot blocked inside the area.
DR Congo remained dangerous on the counter and almost turned the game around when Bakambu struck the post just before the hour mark. Steve Kapuadi also went close with a header as the Africans continued to threaten.
In the closing stages, Bruno Fernandes came within inches of snatching victory for Portugal, but his late effort drifted just wide. DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau also produced key saves to preserve the draw.
The result leaves both sides with a point apiece after their Group K opener, setting up a finely poised battle for progression to the knockout stage.
