Wissa Earns Congo DR Historic Point Against Portugal

Congo DR made history at the FIFA World Cup 2026 by securing their first-ever goal and point in the competition, holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw in a compelling Group K encounter at Houston Stadium.

Yoane Wissa delivered the landmark moment in first-half stoppage time, rising to head home Arthur Masuaku’s cross and cancel out Joao Neves’ early opener.

The equaliser came 52 years after Congo DR’s debut at the 1974 tournament, marking a breakthrough for Les Leopards on the global stage.

Portugal had seized control within six minutes when Neves powered Pedro Neto’s cross past Lionel Mpasi.

Cristiano Ronaldo, captaining his side, also etched his name into the record books by becoming the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match at 41 years and 132 days. It was his 23rd appearance at the tournament, drawing him level with Italian legend Paolo Maldini on the all-time list.

Despite Portugal’s dominance in the opening exchanges, Congo DR grew into the contest.

Wissa had already threatened with a curling effort before his decisive header, while Steve Kapuadi later went close with a second-half chance. Portugal thought they had regained the lead when Joao Cancelo’s acrobatic overhead kick found the net, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Ronaldo, chasing a ninth World Cup goal, fired two half-chances off target as Congo DR held firm to secure a famous result.

The draw leaves both sides level on one point in Group K, with Colombia and Uzbekistan yet to play. For Congo DR, the evening in Houston will be remembered as the night they finally announced themselves on the world stage.