DR Congo shock Portugal as Wissa’s historic goal sparks World Cup draw

The match was a remarkable occasion for Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who became the oldest outfield player ever to start a World Cup match and made his 23rd appearance at the tournament, tying Italian legend Paolo Maldini on the all-time list.

Portugal appeared on course for victory after taking the lead in the sixth minute. Joao Neves rose above the defense to head home Pedro Neto’s cross, giving the Europeans an early lead.

Despite Portugal’s strong start, DR Congo gradually grew into the game. Yoane Wissa made history in first-half stoppage time. Arthur Masuaku delivered a cross into the box, and Wissa powered a header past Diogo Costa, scoring DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup goal.

Portugal thought they had regained the lead shortly after the break when Joao Cancelo scored with a spectacular overhead kick, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

DR Congo continued to press forward and nearly scored the winning goal, while Ronaldo failed to convert two late chances in the pursuit of his ninth World Cup goal.

The final whistle confirmed a historic result for Les Leopards, who secured their first-ever World Cup point, denying Portugal a win.

Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) squad had finally arrived in the United States for the World Cup after spending three weeks in isolation in Europe due to an Ebola outbreak in their home country.