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Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup starts with disappointment
Portugal fail to build on early strike as Congo earn first points
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Staff Reporter - Thu, 18, Jun 2026
- 18:26 EDT
- 67
Portugal fail to build on early strike as Congo earn first points in 1-1 draw in a Group K match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Houston Stadium in Houston, USA, on Wednesday. / IANS/ FIFA.com
Thousands of Portugal fans had filled the Houston stadium with excitement even before the match on June 18. Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening Group K match.
Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes but could not make the difference.
Portugal took an early lead when João Neves scored with a header in the sixth minute. It looked like Portugal were on their way to victory. But just before half-time, Yoane Wissa equalized with a header from a corner, scoring DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup goal.
Portugal controlled possession in the second half and created several chances. Ronaldo was involved in the attack, but the winning goal never came.
After the final whistle, many Portugal fans left the stadium disappointed. Still, they continued to cheer for Ronaldo and believe their team will bounce back.
Now all eyes are on June 23 in Houston, when Portugal face Uzbekistan. The fans will once again hope to see Ronaldo lead his team to their first World Cup win.
With Colombia and Uzbekistan, the other teams in the Group, Portugal are expected to progress with ease from Group K, but Wednesday's draw adds to the pressure on Rolando's side.
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