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Jun 17, 20261
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Portugal Held by DR Congo in 2026 World Cup Group K Opener
Portugal and DR Congo drew 1-1 in their opening 2026 World Cup Group K match in Houston. Joao Neves scored early for Portugal, but Yoan Wissa equalised before halftime, and Cristiano Ronaldo started the game as Portugal failed to secure a win.
Quick Facts
Who
Portugal
What
Played a 1-1 draw in a 2026 World Cup Group K match
When
Wednesday evening
Where
Houston
- Played a 1-1 draw in a 2026 World Cup Group K match
- Portugal scored first through Joao Neves
- DR Congo equalised before halftime through Yoan Wissa
- Joao Cancelo had a goal disallowed for offside
- Cristiano Ronaldo started for Portugal
Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup, with both sides taking a point from the Group K contest in Houston. Portugal made the better start and went ahead in the sixth minute when Joao Neves headed in from a Pedro Neto cross.
DR Congo grew into the match and equalised in first-half stoppage time through Yoan Wissa, who finished from a cross by Arthur Masuaku. Portugal later had a Joao Cancelo effort ruled out for offside, while both teams created chances in a lively second half.
Cristiano Ronaldo started for Portugal and added another milestone to his career by appearing in the match, but he was unable to help his team find a winner. Portugal pressed late for a decisive goal, with Bruno Fernandes going close near the end, but the match finished level.
The result was a disappointing start for Portugal, who were expected to challenge strongly in the group stage, while DR Congo earned a valuable point against one of the tournament favourites.
Why This Matters
This result reshapes expectations for Group K: Portugal, a tournament favorite, now faces pressure to secure wins in upcoming matches, while DR Congo gains a crucial point that boosts their knockout-stage hopes. For bettors and analysts, Portugal's failure to win with Ronaldo starting signals possible vulnerabilities in attack and defense against weaker opponents.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 17, 2026
WirePortugal and DR Congo drew 1-1 in their opening 2026 World Cup Group K match in Houston.
Jun 17, 2026
WireJoao Neves headed Portugal into the lead in the sixth minute.
Jun 17, 2026
WireYoan Wissa equalised for DR Congo in first-half stoppage time.
Jun 17, 2026
WireJoao Cancelo had a goal ruled out for offside early in the second half.
Jun 17, 2026
WirePortugal pushed late for a winner, but the match ended level.