FIFA World Cup 2026: Cristiano Ronaldo fails to shine as DR Congo earn historic World Cup point
Updated On: 18 June, 2026 01:02 AM IST | Houston | AFP
The DRC's achievement was even greater given their preparations had been disrupted by the Ebola outbreak back in their country

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal reacts after the 1-1 draw during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K match between Portugal and Congo DR at Houston Stadium in Houston, Texas. Pic/AFP
Cristiano Ronaldo's record-equalling sixth World Cup got off to a disappointing start as the Democratic Republic of Congo secured their first ever point at the finals, drawing 1-1 with Portugal in their Group K match on Wednesday.
Yoane Wissa's header cancelled out Joao Neves's early goal and the African side -- appearing in their first World Cup since 1974 when it was known as Zaire -- more than held their own. Ronaldo, 41, was largely a peripheral figure throughout the match -- failing to make the impact his great rival Lionel Messi had done on Tuesday in scoring a hat-trick against Algeria.
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