Congo DR claimed their first ever FIFA World Cup™ goal and point as Yoane Wissa’s strike in first-half stoppage time pegged back Portugal.
A historic day for Les Leopards was also notable as Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest outfield player to ever start a World Cup match. It was Ronaldo’s 23rd World Cup appearance, putting him fourth on the all-time list alongside Italian great Paolo Maldini.
Just six minutes into the game, Portugal took the lead as Joao Neves rose highest to head Pedro Neto’s inviting cross past Lionel Mpasi.
Portugal dominated the early exchanges, though Congo DR fashioned their first chance after 10 minutes when Wissa curled a left-footed effort narrowly wide of Diogo Costa’s goal.
They continued to threaten the Portuguese backline and, moments before half-time, the African side snatched an equaliser. Arthur Masuaku floated a cross towards Wissa, who powered a header home. It was a historic moment: Congo DR’s first ever World Cup goal, coming 52 years after the nation made their debut at the 1974 tournament.
Joao Cancelo thought he had restored Portugal’s advantage shortly after the restart. The full-back’s spectacular overhead kick found the back of the net – but Cancelo had strayed offside.
Congo DR, buoyed by their leveller, continued to probe and centre-back Steve Kapuadi headed wide for Sebastien Desabre’s team. Portugal skipper Ronaldo also fired two half-chances off-target, but was unable to add a ninth World Cup goal to his name and the game finished level.
As well as being the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match, at 41 years 132 days, Ronaldo became the second‑oldest outfield player to make an appearance at the tournament – behind Roger Milla, who was 42 years 39 days when he played for Cameroon against Russia on 28 June 1994.
Source: FIFA
