Late Equaliser Denies Portugal Victory Against DR Congo

COLOMBO (News 1st); Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in a tightly contested Group K encounter of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with late drama denying the European side a winning start at Houston Stadium.

Portugal began the match with intensity and quickly took control, opening the scoring in just the 6th minute through Joao Neves, who capitalised on early attacking pressure to give his side the lead.

The early breakthrough allowed Portugal to dominate possession and dictate the tempo for most of the first half, consistently pressing forward in search of a second goal to secure their advantage.

However, DR Congo showed resilience and discipline, gradually growing into the game and creating opportunities of their own against a high-pressing Portuguese side.

Their persistence paid off deep into first-half stoppage time, when Yoane Wissa found the equaliser in the 45+5 minute, stunning Portugal just before the break and shifting the momentum of the match.

The second half saw both teams pushing for a decisive goal, with Portugal continuing to dominate possession while DR Congo remained dangerous on the counterattack.

Despite several attacking attempts and tactical adjustments, neither side was able to break the deadlock, with both defences holding firm under pressure.

Portugal registered more control over the game overall, but DR Congo’s disciplined structure and timely interventions ensured they walked away with a valuable point.