DR Congo marked their return to the FIFA World Cup after a 52-year absence with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against tournament favourites Portugal in their opening Group K match in Houston.
The Leopards, appearing at the World Cup for the first time since 1974, produced a disciplined performance to earn a valuable point against Roberto Martinez’s star-studded side.
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Portugal strike early
Portugal made the perfect start and took the lead after just six minutes.
Pedro Neto delivered a dangerous cross from the left flank, and João Neves rose to guide a header beyond DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
Martinez’s side dominated possession during the opening stages and looked capable of extending their advantage, but DR Congo gradually settled into the contest.
The African side threatened through Cédric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa before finding a historic equaliser in first-half stoppage time.
Arthur Masuaku’s corner found Wissa unmarked at the back post, and the Brentford forward powered his header into the net.
The goal was DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup goal. Their only previous appearance came in 1974 under the name Zaire, when they failed to score in three group-stage matches.
Leopards stand firm
Portugal pushed aggressively for a winner after the break but found it difficult to break down DR Congo’s organised defensive structure.
Bruno Fernandes and João Cancelo attempted to create openings from wide areas, while Rafael Leão and Gonçalo Ramos were introduced as Portugal searched for a breakthrough.
Cancelo thought he had restored Portugal’s lead, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
At the other end, Chancel Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe delivered commanding defensive performances, while goalkeeper Mpasi remained composed under increasing pressure.
Rather than simply defending, DR Congo continued to pose a threat on the counterattack through Wissa, Bakambu and Noah Sadiki.
Portugal came closest to snatching victory in stoppage time when Bruno Fernandes found space on the edge of the area, but his effort drifted narrowly wide of the post.
Group K remains wide open
The draw leaves both teams with work to do in a competitive Group K that also features Colombia and Uzbekistan.
Portugal will remain in Houston to face World Cup debutants Uzbekistan on June 23, while DR Congo travel to Guadalajara, Mexico, for a crucial clash against Colombia on June 24.
For Sébastien Desabre’s side, however, the result represents a memorable return to football’s biggest stage and a historic first World Cup goal after more than five decades away from the tournament.
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