Cristiano Ronaldo’s sixth FIFA World Cup campaign did not begin as hoped. The Portuguese star could only help his team secure a single point in their opening Group K match after Portugal was held to a 1-1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) at Houston Stadium on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Portugal took an early lead through João Neves, who found the net in the sixth minute. However, DR Congo equalized when Yoane Wissa scored during first-half stoppage time.
The result leaves Portugal in third place in the Group K standings with one point, level with DR Congo, which occupies second place.
Meanwhile, Colombia moved to the top of the group after defeating Uzbekistan 3-1 in the other Group K match at Mexico City Stadium.
Colombia’s goals were scored by Daniel Muñoz in the 40th minute, Luis Díaz in the 65th minute, and Jaminton Campaz in the 90+9th minute. Uzbekistan’s only goal came from Abbosbek Fayzullaev in the 60th minute.
In the next round of matches, Portugal will face Uzbekistan on June 24, 2026, while Colombia will take on DR Congo.
Martinez: Portugal Lost Their Attacking Rhythm
Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez admitted that his team lost some of its attacking variety after taking an early lead.
“We started the match very well. Scoring a goal should have been a positive moment for us, but it did not turn out that way. I think we lost some variety in attack, lost fluidity in possession, and allowed them to regain their shape,” Martínez said, as quoted by FIFA.
According to the Spanish coach, DR Congo’s equalizing goal boosted their confidence and made the match considerably more difficult for Portugal.
Nevertheless, Martínez praised his players’ determination to keep searching for a winning goal until the final whistle.
“I am very pleased with the team’s attitude. This is not a matter of lacking commitment or spirit. We kept trying until the end of the match. We can learn and improve a great deal from this game,” he said.
Desabre Proud of DR Congo’s Performance
Meanwhile, DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre expressed pride in his players’ performance, which successfully disrupted Portugal’s dominance throughout the match.
He said his team demonstrated remarkable commitment and sacrifice against one of the tournament favorites.
“We executed our game plan exactly as we wanted, scored from a set-piece situation, and honestly, I am very proud of the players,” Desabre said.
The draw is expected to provide a significant morale boost for DR Congo as they continue their Group K campaign, especially since the result came against one of the World Cup favorites led by global superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.***
