Portugal held to 1-1 draw by Congo in World Cup upset; Ronaldo struggles

Portugal failed to build on Messi's impressive hat-trick opening as the European side was held to a 1-1 draw by Congo (Democratic Republic) in a Group K first-round match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking another major upset of the tournament. The result came on June 17 at Houston Sports Stadium, with Congo securing their first-ever World Cup goal and point 52 years after their previous appearance in 1974 as Zaire, when they lost all three matches.

Portugal struck first when midfielder João Neves headed in a goal just six minutes into the match. However, the anticipated rout did not materialize. Lê's defender Masuaku delivered a corner kick late in the first half that found Sadio Wissa of Newcastle United, who powered a header past the Portuguese defense to equalize before halftime. This goal marked Congo's first in World Cup history.

Despite Portugal's dominance in possession and passing—controlling 60% possession with 791 passes compared to Congo's 263—the European side managed only seven shots, with just one on target before the goal. Ronaldo, appearing in his sixth consecutive World Cup at age 41 and seeking to match Messi's recent hat-trick performance, failed to break through and took three shots without result. Congo's goalkeeper Mbasi did not need to make a single save. Following halftime, Portugal continued to control play but Congo's solid defending and dangerous counterattacks prevented further scoring, with Congo also generating scoring chances they could not convert.

The result represents another shock in an eventful World Cup that has already seen Spain held by Cape Verde. Portugal, ranked fifth in the world with a squad featuring significant attacking talent, must regroup before facing Uzbekistan on June 23, while Congo will meet Colombia in their next Group K fixture.

Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes in his attempt to extend his record of scoring in six consecutive World Cups, but the squad's attacking prowess proved insufficient against determined defensive organization and discipline from the African side.