DR Congo Hold Portugal to 1-1 Draw in Group K Clash

June 17, (THEWILL) — Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in a fiercely contested Group K encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

The Europeans made a dream start, taking the lead just six minutes into the match through midfielder João Neves, who finished off a flowing attacking move to put Portugal ahead early.

Despite the setback, DR Congo responded positively and gradually grew into the game. The African side remained compact defensively while posing a threat on the counterattack whenever opportunities arose.

Portugal dominated possession for much of the opening half and created several promising chances, but a combination of poor finishing and determined defending prevented them from extending their advantage.

DR Congo’s persistence paid off in first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa found the equaliser in the fifth minute of added time.

The forward capitalised on an opportunity to level the score at 1-1 and send his side into the break with renewed belief.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Portugal controlling large spells of possession and searching for a winning goal. However, DR Congo’s disciplined defensive organisation continued to frustrate the Portuguese attack.

At the other end, the Congolese side remained dangerous on the break, using their pace and physical presence to test Portugal’s defence whenever space became available.

As the match entered its closing stages, both teams pushed for a decisive goal, but neither could find a breakthrough.

Portugal’s attacking efforts were repeatedly repelled, while DR Congo maintained their defensive resilience to secure a valuable point.

The result leaves Group K finely balanced, with both nations earning a point from the encounter.

Portugal may rue their inability to convert their dominance into victory after taking an early lead, while DR Congo will take confidence from a spirited display that demonstrated their resilience and tactical discipline.

João Neves was among Portugal’s standout performers after opening the scoring and producing an energetic midfield display.

For DR Congo, Wissa proved decisive with the crucial equaliser that ensured his side shared the spoils.

The outcome further underlined the growing competitiveness of African teams on the world stage, with DR Congo matching one of Europe’s strongest sides through determination, organisation, and character.

DR Congo’s Yoane Wissa rises above the Portugal defence to score the equalising goal during the Group K FIFA World Cup 2026 match at NRG Stadium, Houston, on Wednesday.