Faded Ronaldo as DR Congo Stun Portugal in World Cup Opener

Darwin, 18 June : Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-breaking sixth FIFA World Cup began in disappointing fashion as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by Democratic Republic of Congo, who marked their return to the tournament after 52 years with a historic result.

The surprise outcome in Group K saw DR Congo claim their first-ever World Cup point and score their first goal in the competition, frustrating a Portuguese side widely expected to start their campaign with a victory.

Portugal made the perfect start at Children’s Mercy Park, taking the lead after just 5 minutes and 32 seconds. A dangerous cross from João Cancelo was headed back across goal by Pedro Neto, allowing the young João Neves to power home a header and give Roberto Martínez’s side an early advantage.

Despite dominating the opening stages, Portugal failed to extend their lead. As the first half progressed, DR Congo grew in confidence and began threatening the Portuguese defense.

Their persistence paid off deep into first-half stoppage time. Arthur Masuaku delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area, where Yoane Wissa was left unmarked and headed the ball into the net, sending Congolese supporters into celebration and leveling the score at 1-1.

The equalizer was a deserved reward for the African side, who recovered impressively after a difficult opening spell. Wissa had already gone close earlier in the half, while Cédric Bakambu also tested Portugal’s defense with a series of dangerous attacks.

DR Congo continued to impress after the break and looked capable of pulling off an even bigger shock by claiming all three points. Portugal, meanwhile, struggled to regain control of the match and created few clear-cut opportunities.

Much of the attention before the game centered on Ronaldo, who became the oldest outfield player in FIFA World Cup history at the age of 41. The Portuguese captain surpassed the previous record held by former Canada captain Atiba Hutchinson.

Ronaldo also joined as only the second player to appear in six different World Cup tournaments. However, the veteran forward endured a quiet outing, seeing little of the ball and failing to make a decisive impact.

For DR Congo, the draw represents one of the most memorable results in the nation’s football history. Returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1974, they produced a disciplined and fearless performance against one of Europe’s traditional powers.

Portugal will now look to bounce back in their next Group K fixture, while DR Congo can take enormous confidence from a result that has already become one of the early stories of the tournament.