The Democratic Republic of Congo got their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign off to a resilient start, holding European heavyweights Portugal to a 1-1 draw in a tightly contested Group stage opener.
Portugal, widely regarded as one of the tournament favorites, came out firing and took the lead in just the sixth minute, immediately testing the resolve of the Leopards. However, DR Congo refused to be overawed and grew into the match as the first half progressed.
Their persistence paid off on the stroke of halftime when Newcastle United striker Yohan Wissa found the net in the 45th minute, leveling the score and sending Congolese fans into raptures.
The second half belonged largely to Portugal, who controlled possession and carved out several promising chances in search of a winner. Yet, DR Congo’s defense remained disciplined and compact, repeatedly repelling the Portuguese attacks.
While the Leopards posed a threat on the counterattack, neither side was able to find a decisive breakthrough in the closing stages. The match ended with the scores locked at 1-1.
The result hands DR Congo a crucial point in their bid to advance from the group stage, providing a solid foundation as they prepare for tougher challenges ahead in what promises to be a demanding campaign.
Portugal, meanwhile, will be left to reflect on dropped points despite their dominance in large portions of the game.
