The Democratic Republic of Congo has started their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaignas they held Portugal to a 1-1 draw.

The Congolese, on Wednesday, squared off against the star-studded Portugese side at the Houston Stadium in Texas, United States.

With an attacking trio comprising of Chelsea’s Pedro Netro, new Real Madrid signing, Bernardo Silva, and Al Nassr forward, Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal were considered favourite to scale through the contest.

They indeed affirmed their dominance and took an early courtesy Joao Neves’ 6th minute goal.

However, DR Congo maintained their composure as they searched for an equaliser.

With Ronaldo kept at bay and the attack threat of Manchester United’s playmaker, Bruno Fernandes, neutralised, the Congolese charged the Portugese and earned a corner kick late in the final minutes of the first half.

Rising to the occassion was Newcastle United’s forward, Yoanne Wissa, who headed home a set piece to bring the scoresheet to 1-1 before halftime whistle.

The second started with a blight of hope for Portugal as goal scoring chances were created.

DR Congo however denied them the chances with Ronaldo having two goal scoring opportunities wasted wide while the Congolese goalkeeper and defenders neutralised all corner kick crossing.

Another late-minute corner kick was kept off DR Congo to bring the match to a 1-1 draw.

The draw sees DR Congo record their first ever point in a World Cup with Wissa also emerging as their first goal scorer in the tournament.