Portugal’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign did not begin the way Cristiano Ronaldo had envisioned. The Seleção were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw against DR Congo on Wednesday. Despite the massive gap in football history and star power, the African side—making their first World Cup appearance since the 1970s—proved to be a fierce and formidable opponent.
Joao Neves Makes History as Yoane Wissa Responds
The match started brilliantly for the Portuguese when Joao Neves headed home in the 6th minute. With this goal, Neves wrote his name into the record books as the third-youngest Portuguese player to score in World Cup history.
However, DR Congo fought back bravely. Yoane Wissa scored a well-deserved equalizer with a powerful header in the final minute of the first half. Despite numerous chances missed by both sides in the second half, the match ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
The Changing Reality for a 41-Year-Old Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo looked far from his usual dangerous self during the opening match. This performance highlights a stark reality for the 41-year-old icon, who has struggled to find his clinical edge, failing to score in open play in his last 11 tournament appearances for Portugal across the World Cup and Euros.
Ronaldo and Portugal will look to bounce back when they face Uzbekistan next Tuesday, before wrapping up the group stage against Colombia on Sunday, June 28.
Euro 2016 Deja Vu: A Reason for Optimism?
Despite the disappointing start, Portuguese fans have a historic reason to remain optimistic. Back in Euro 2016, Portugal similarly opened their campaign with a frustrating draw against underdogs Iceland, yet they went on to lift the trophy. Time will tell if history will repeat itself in 2026.
