Ronaldo fires blank as DR Congo hold Portugal in World Cup opener

The Democratic Republic of Congo announced their return to the FIFA World Cup stage with a spirited 1-1 draw against Portugal on Wednesday. This result denied Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates victory in their Group K opener. The Leopards are appearing at the tournament for the first time in 52 years.

Portugal looked set for a winning start when João Neves headed home Pedro Neto’s cross in the sixth minute. However, DR Congo responded positively, with Yoane Wissa firing narrowly wide and Cédric Bakambu testing the Portuguese defence. Despite dominating possession, Portugal struggled to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Congolese backline.

The Leopards were rewarded for their resilience on the stroke of halftime. Wissa rose unmarked from a corner kick and headed beyond Diogo Costa to score DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup goal, leveling the match at 1-1. Portugal pushed for a winner after the break, with João Cancelo having an effort ruled out for offside. Ronaldo, featuring in his sixth World Cup, finally got a sight of goal late in the game but failed to convert.

DR Congo also threatened to snatch a famous victory, with Bakambu striking the post during an encouraging second-half display. In the end, neither side could find a decisive goal as the points were shared. For DR Congo, the draw represents another milestone in a remarkable journey. Portugal, meanwhile, will be concerned by a lacklustre attacking display and Ronaldo’s inability to make the difference.

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