FIFA WC 2026: DR Congo pins Portugal to a draw in opener

DR Congo dominated but roared at the end of the first period

DR Congo started this game badly. Certainly paralyzed by the pressure, the Leopards conceded the opening goal very early. Very low, they conceded in the 6th minute after Joao Neves' goal. After that, the Congolese selection did not know how to be sharp in the game, being deprived of ball by Portugal who showed a total mastery in the game with 79% possession.

Despite the ultra-dominance of the Portuguese, DR Congo has managed to keep its strength by closing the passing spaces, which can put them in difficulty. After defending well, Chancel Mbemba and his partners had a strong time at the end of the first period. In added time, Arthur Masuaku lands the ball on the head of Yoane Wissa who catapults it into the net. The Newcastle United striker scored the first DRC goal in history at the World Cup. The Leopards equalized despite having 21% possession of the ball, 6 shots and 2 on target. The Congolese selection was pragmatic: 1-1 at the break.

A very balanced second period

The DRC was cheered by its equalization in the final minutes of the first period. In fact, Sébastien Desabre’s players had a second period of high intensity. Although they had less of the ball, they knocked off the opposing offensive armada. They responded to the Portuguese blow for blow. All the players were at their best level, solid in duels, present in between games and appealing offensively with combinations.

Chancel Mbemba gave a big performance. He shook up the Portuguese forwards enormously, while muzzling Cristiano Ronaldo. The latter did not have the necessary spaces to illustrate himself and bring danger into the Congolese penalty area. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, on the right side, didn’t let anything pass. The West Ham United player was physically ready. Although he couldn’t find the back of the net, Cédric Bakambu was valuable to his team. He played his role as a point of support and fixation so well. Only the goals lacked in his game.

A great performance that the DR Congo must improve on its second day in group K of the 2026 World Cup. The Leopards will face Colombia on Wednesday, June 24 at 2:00 GMT at the Guadalajara stadium in Mexico.