Wissa firs-ever goal gives DR Congo first ever 2026 World Cup point in 1-1 draw with Portugal, Stats, Records
Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in the African nation's first World Cup appearance in 52 years. Portugal started strongly, taking the lead in the sixth minute through Joao Neves after a cross from Pedro Neto. However, despite dominating possession, they failed to create many clear chances.
DR Congo gradually grew into the game and equalized in first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa headed in Arthur Masuaku’s cross, scoring the country's first-ever World Cup goal. Portugal pushed harder after the break, but Cristiano Ronaldo, making his sixth World Cup appearance, struggled to make an impact as Congo's defense kept him quiet.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez admitted his team lacked attacking intent after scoring early, while DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre praised his players for earning a historic point. Portugal will need improved performances against Uzbekistan and Colombia in their remaining Group K matches.
Portugal dominated possession and scored with their only shot on target, while DR Congo made the most of their opportunities to secure a valuable point. Ronaldo, at 41, became the oldest player to start a World Cup match and matched Lionel Messi's record of appearing in six World Cups, but he was unable to add to his World Cup goal tally as Portugal settled for a disappointing draw.
Portugal vs DR Congo World Cup Match Stats, Facts, records
Match Facts, The Goals: João Neves opened the scoring for Portugal in the 6th minute with a header off a Pedro Neto cross. Yoane Wissa equalised for DR Congo on the stroke of halftime (45+5').
Records Made Oldest Outfield Player: Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest outfield player to ever start a World Cup match at 41 years and 123 days old.
Six World Cups: Ronaldo officially joined Lionel Messi as the only men in football history to play in 6 different World Cup tournaments.
DR Congo Firsts: Yoane Wissa scored DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup goal in their fourth match in tournament history (dating back to 1974 when they competed as Zaire), securing their first-ever World Cup point.
Pass Mastery: Portugal completed 724 passes, their most in any World Cup match. Vitinha completed 121 passes, setting the individual record for a Portuguese player in a single World Cup game.
Possession vs. Shots Anomaly: Portugal maintained 75% possession, the highest ever recorded in a World Cup match (since 1966) for a team that finished with fewer total shots than their opponent (7 shots for Portugal vs. 8 for DR Congo).
Notable Statistics.
10 Major Tournament Games: Ronaldo extended his longest international major tournament drought to 10 consecutive matches without a goal (including Euro 2024 and the World Cup). He registered 0 shots on target in 90 minutes.
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