Football World Cup: Portugal held to 1-1 draw against DR Congo

Portugal was held to a 1-1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match of the Football World Cup in Houston. Despite taking an early lead, the favored Portuguese side could not secure a victory.

João Neves opened the scoring for Portugal in the 6th minute with a header from a Pedro Neto cross. However, Yoane Wissa scored Congo's first-ever World Cup goal just before halftime, equalizing for the Central African nation. The match was played in front of 68,777 spectators.

Cristiano Ronaldo, making his record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance, was largely invisible for much of the game. After taking the lead, Portugal eased off, failing to exert significant pressure on Congo's defense. Despite numerous passes, Portugal only managed one shot on target throughout the match.

Congo, appearing in the World Cup for the first time in 52 years (as Zaire), showed moments of threat. Wissa's equalizer came from a well-worked short corner. Portugal's other opponents in Group K are Colombia and Uzbekistan.