DR Congo secured their first ever FIFA World Cup point after a 1-1 draw Portugal in the opening match of Group K, with striker Yoane Wissa scoring a historic equalizer.
Portugal looked set for victory after taking an early lead through Joao Neves, but the Leopards responded strongly and were rewarded just before half-time with a result to remember.
The draw marked a significant milestone for DR Congo, who were making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, when they competed as Zaire and lost all three matches.
Wissa cancels Portugal’s early advantage
Portugal got off to a great start and broke the deadlock in the sixth minute when Neves headed in a cross from Pedro Neto.
Despite dominating possession, Roberto Martinez’s side struggled to create clear-cut chances and failed to convert their control of the game into goals.
DR Congo took advantage of this ineffectiveness in stoppage time in the first half. Left unmarked inside the penalty area, Wissa rose to meet Arthur Masuaku’s cross and head past the goalkeeper from close range for his country’s first World Cup goal.
Ronaldo denied in the historic night
In the match, Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo also made history by equaling Lionel Messi with appearances in six World Cup tournaments.
However, Ronaldo failed to become the first player to score in six different World Cups.
The veteran striker came closest midway through the second half when he twice came across substitute Francisco Conceicao’s low limits but narrowly missed the target on both occasions.
DR Congo impresses against the favourites
Ranked 46th in the world, DR Congo looked organized defensively and dangerous on the counter-attack throughout the contest.
They almost took all three points when experienced striker Cedric Bakambu hit the post, while Portugal managed just one shot on target all game — Neves’ first goal.
The result leaves Group K finely balanced and represents a huge confidence boost for DR Congo as they continue their World Cup campaign.
