18 June,2026 12:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Cristiano Ronaldo (Pic: X/@Cristiano)
The FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Portugal and DR Congo ended in a 1-1 draw at the Houston Stadium in Texas.
During the match, Portugal's superstar Cristiano Ronaldo set a record as soon as he took the field. He became the oldest outfield player to start a match in the tournament's history. At the age of 41 years and 132 days, Ronaldo surpassed Canada's Atiba Hutchinson, who had started a World Cup match at 39 years and 296 days against Croatia during the 2022 edition.
Ronaldo also became the second men's player in the tournament's history to make appearances in six FIFA World Cups. He has now joined the likes of Argentina's Lionel Messi for the record.
During the match, Ronaldo registered 25 touches and also attempted three shots. This was the second-fewest touches in his career's World Cup start.
This has added to the frustration with concerns over his form in major events. Ronaldo has now gone 10 consecutive matches without scoring in a major tournament.
In the game, Joao Neves made an impact by scoring the first goal with a fine header in the sixth minute. Later, DR Congo's Yoane Wissa produced a score-levelling goal by showcasing a stupendous header.
The Portuguese men thought that they had regained the lead in the second half when Joao Cancelo showcased terrific effort, but it was ruled out for offside.
Later, substitute Francisco Conceicao created openings for Ronaldo, but the 41-year-old striker struggled to convert the chances.
Despite late pressure, Portugal could not find a winner, as DR Congo held firm to claim a memorable point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
Cristiano Ronaldo-led men will now lock horns with Uzbekistan on June 23 at the Houston Stadium in Texas. They will then take on Colombia on June 28 at the Miami Stadium in Florida.
(With ANI Inputs)
