Cristiano Ronaldo’s bid to make an impact at a record-equalling sixth World Cup got off to a frustrating start as the Democratic Republic of Congo earned their first-ever point at the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Portugal on Wednesday.
Portugal appeared on course for victory when Joao Neves powered home a header from Pedro Neto’s cross in the sixth minute, but Yoane Wissa struck before halftime to level the score and secure a historic result for the African side.
Playing in their first World Cup since 1974, when the country competed as Zaire, DR Congo matched Portugal for long periods and showed resilience despite preparations being disrupted by an Ebola outbreak back home.
Ronaldo, 41, struggled to influence the contest and missed two late opportunities created by Francisco Conceicao, sending both efforts wide as Portugal failed to find a winner.
Wissa’s equaliser, a well-taken header beyond goalkeeper Diogo Costa, sparked jubilant celebrations among Congolese players and supporters as he scored his nation’s first-ever World Cup goal.
Portugal thought they had regained the lead through Joao Cancelo’s overhead kick, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
DR Congo also came close to snatching victory when veteran striker Cedric Bakambu struck the post.
With neither side able to find a decisive breakthrough, DR Congo secured a memorable point while Portugal were left frustrated after dropping points in their Group K opener.