Portugal were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in a rain-soaked World Cup Group K encounter in Houston, with Cristiano Ronaldo enduring a frustrating outing as the tournament favourites dropped points.
The Portuguese got off to a dream start, opening the scoring just six minutes into the match. Pedro Neto delivered a precise cross into the box and Joao Neves rose highest to head home from close range.
However, despite taking an early lead, Portugal struggled to create clear-cut chances and failed to register another shot on target for the remainder of the game.
Making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, DR Congo gradually grew into the contest and were rewarded in first-half stoppage time. Yoane Wissa escaped his marker during a corner kick and nodded in at the back post to bring the Africans level before the break.
The Congolese nearly completed the turnaround in the second half when Cedric Bakambu struck the post, while Ronaldo squandered two promising opportunities, firing wide on both occasions.
The match marked Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup appearance, a feat matched only by Argentina captain Lionel Messi, but the Portuguese superstar was unable to inspire his side to victory as DR Congo earned a memorable point against one of the tournament favourites.
