HOUSTON, United States — An impressive defensive performance from the Democratic Republic of Congo held Portugal to a frustrating 1-1 draw on Wednesday night, denying captain Cristiano Ronaldo a historic scoring start to his sixth FIFA World Cup campaign.
The Group K opener at the Houston Stadium saw the African underdogs bounce back from an early deficit to secure their first-ever World Cup point in front of a packed crowd of over 68,000 spectators.
Okay News sports reports that Portugal got off to a flying start when 21-year-old midfielder João Neves headed home a precise cross from Pedro Neto in the sixth minute. Despite commanding 75 percent of the possession, Roberto Martínez’s side struggled to break down the Leopards’ resilient five-man defense and was punished deep into first-half stoppage time. Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa found himself unmarked in the box to fire a powerful header past Diogo Costa, netting DR Congo’s first-ever goal in World Cup history.
All eyes remained on 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who set a record as the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match but endured a difficult night in front of goal. The Al-Nassr forward missed two close-range chances in the second half, firing wide from low cut-backs provided by substitute Francisco Conceição. With group rivals also finding their rhythm in the tournament, Portugal will look to redeem themselves when they face Uzbekistan in Houston on Tuesday, June 23, while DR Congo travels to Guadalajara to clash with Colombia.
