LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – DR Congo produced one of the early shocks of the World Cup after holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw, with Yoane Wissa scoring a late equaliser to secure a historic point for the debutants.
Portugal took the lead in the sixth minute through João Neves, who powered a header into the net from Pedro Neto’s cross as Roberto Martínez’s side dominated possession in the opening stages.
Despite controlling 75% of the ball, Portugal failed to turn dominance into clear chances, finishing the match with just four shots and only one on target.
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DR Congo struck back in first-half stoppage time when Wissa was left unmarked at the back post to head home from close range after Arthur Masuaku’s delivery, marking the nation’s first-ever World Cup goal.
The result is especially significant given DR Congo’s history at the tournament. In their only previous appearance in 1974, then known as Zaire, they lost all three group matches without scoring.
captained Portugal and played in a record sixth World Cup finals appearance. At 41, he also became one of the oldest outfield players to start a World Cup match.
Ronaldo had two late chances to win the game but sent both efforts narrowly wide as Portugal struggled to break down a disciplined DR Congo defence.
DR Congo goalkeeper Diogo Costa was rarely tested, while Cedric Bakambu also came close after hitting the post in a rare counter-attacking spell.
The result leaves Portugal with work to do in their group, while DR Congo celebrate a memorable point on their World Cup debut.
