World Cup 2026: DR Congo mark return to global stage with 1-1 draw against favourites Portugal

DR Congo announced their return to the FIFA World Cup stage in memorable fashion on Wednesday, holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw in their opening Group K encounter.

Making their first appearance at the tournament in more than five decades, the Leopards produced a spirited display to earn a valuable point against one of the competition's pre-tournament favourites and begin their campaign on a positive note.

Portugal made a brighter start and took the lead inside the opening ten minutes.

In the sixth minute, Pedro Neto delivered a clever lofted pass into the penalty area, where Joao Neves timed his run perfectly before guiding a close-range header into the top right corner beyond the goalkeeper.

The early breakthrough appeared to put Portugal in control as they dominated possession and looked to dictate the tempo throughout much of the first half.

Despite Portugal's control, DR Congo remained organised and continued to search for opportunities on the counterattack.

Their persistence paid off just before halftime when Arthur Masuaku whipped a dangerous cross into the box. Yoane Wissa reacted quickest, bursting into position before finishing emphatically into the roof of the net from close range in the 45th minute.

A first-ever FIFA World Cup goal for Congo DR 🥹#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/Ap2BYAyOoV

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 17, 2026

The goal, which was their first-ever at the World Cup, inspired the belief that they can earn something at the end of the 90 minutes.

Portugal thought they had restored their advantage ten minutes into the second half.

Joao Cancelo found the net in the 55th minute, only for the assistant referee's flag to cut short the celebrations. The goal was ruled out for offside, much to the frustration of the Portuguese defender and his teammates.

The decision ensured the contest remained finely balanced entering the final half hour.

DR Congo nearly completed a remarkable turnaround shortly afterwards.

Cedric Bakambu showed excellent control inside the penalty area after receiving a clever pass, but his effort struck the right post and bounced away from danger in the 57th minute.

Although more chances came for both national teams, neither side could find the back of the net as they settled for a stalemate at full-time.