From acid attack to first DR Congo World Cup goal: Yoane Wissa's story

Yoane Wissa etched his name in football history by scoring the Democratic Republic of Congo's first-ever goal in a World Cup match. The striker's header in first-half stoppage time secured a landmark 1-1 draw against Portugal in their 2026 tournament debut.

The match, held on June 17, saw Portugal take an early lead through João Neves. However, DR Congo, displaying defensive order under coach Sébastien Desabre, resisted Portuguese pressure. Wissa's equalizer came from a precise header following an Arthur Masuaku corner, finding the upper corner of the net.

This goal marks a monumental achievement for Congolese football, 52 years after their only previous World Cup appearance in 1974. The equalizer sparked massive celebrations in Kinshasa and across the nation, with streets filling with people, fireworks, and chants extending into the night.

Adding a layer of profound personal triumph to the national success, Wissa, now 29 and playing for Newcastle United, had previously survived a harrowing acid attack in July 2021. An assailant threw corrosive liquid at his face, causing severe burns and threatening his vision. The attacker received an 18-year prison sentence. After extensive recovery and surgeries, Wissa rebuilt his career in the English Premier League, scoring 49 goals in 149 matches before his move to Newcastle.