World Cup 2026: Resilient DR Congo hold off Ronaldo's Portugal onslaught
Key takeaways
- Portugal and DR Congo played out a dramatic 1-1 draw in Houston as the African underdogs showed remarkable resilience against one of the tournament's favorites.
- Issued on: 17/06/2026 - 21:05Modified: 17/06/2026 - 21:05
- The Seleçao made a blistering start in Houston, with João Neves rising highest from a lofted pass by Pedro Neto in the sixth minute to head past goalkeeper Mpasi Nzau.
Why this matters: an international story with cross-border implications worth tracking.
Portugal and DR Congo played out a dramatic 1-1 draw in Houston as the African underdogs showed remarkable resilience against one of the tournament's favorites. João Neves gave the Portuguese an early lead, but Yoane Wissa's equaliser just before half-time earned the Leopards a crucial point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
Issued on: 17/06/2026 - 21:05Modified: 17/06/2026 - 21:05
By: Mehdi BOUZOUINA Congo DR's midfielder Samuel Moutoussamy fights for the ball with Portugal's midfielder Joao Neves during the 2026 World Cup Group K football match between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Houston Stadium in Houston on June 17, 2026. © Ronaldo Schmidt, AFP Portugal failed to break down a courageous and well-organised DR Congo on Wednesday despite overwhelming dominance.