Portugal Held by DR Congo in World Cup Opener as Cristiano Ronaldo Sets Historic Record

Portugal fail to beat DR Congo on Cristiano Ronaldo's record day

Portugal's World Cup campaign got off to a frustrating start as they were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in Houston on a day when superstar Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest outfield player ever to start a match in the tournament’s history.

Portugal captain was 41 years and 132 days old when he took the field at Houston's NRG Stadium and became among the first players to feature in six World Cups.

But he was unable to drive his country, whonare deemed title contenders, to victory even after midfielder Joao Neves gave them an early lead, but DR Congo earned a deserved point through Yoane Wissa in a historic result for the African side.

Portugal struck in the sixth minute when Pedro Neto's teasing cross was headed in by Neves from close range.

DR Congo gradually grew into the contest and began to trouble Portugal on the counter-attack in first-half stoppage time equalised when Wissa rose highest to head in a corner for DR Congo's first World Cup goal in 52 years.

Portugal upped the ante after the break but couldn't find a way to the net as Congo held on for a famous point.

Portugal next take on Uzbekistan, while DR Congo face Colombia.

João Neves earns the @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match trophy. 👑

#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/YLzziP40eu

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 17, 2026

Player of the Match :João Neves

After the match Yoane Wissa, striker of DR Congo said, "I’m obviously very proud today because we’ve worked extremely hard. It was a very difficult match against a team that was stronger than us. But we showed courage and resilience. Scoring our first goal is a huge source of pride because it reflects the character of this team. The most important thing now is to keep going."