The opening match of the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended with an unexpected result. The Portugal national team, traditionally considered one of the main favorites of the tournament, failed to defeat the national team of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The match ended in a draw, which became a real sensation for world football.
Historic Debut of Cristiano Ronaldo
The main event of the match was the appearance on the field of the legendary captain of the Portuguese, Cristiano Ronaldo. At the age of 41 years and 132 days, the striker came on in the starting lineup, which allowed him to set two unique records at once.
First, Ronaldo became the oldest outfield player in the history of the World Cup to start a World Cup match from the first minute. Secondly, this tournament became the sixth in his career (debut took place in 2006). Cristiano entered history as the second player to reach this peak. The day before, Lionel Messi achieved a similar feat, scoring a hat-trick for the Argentina national team.
Match Progress: From Confident Leadership to Tough Struggle
The match started ideally for the Portuguese. Already in the 6th minute, Pedro Neto made a precise cross into the penalty area, where Joao Neves, the newly minted two-time Champions League winner, brilliantly headed the ball into the opponent's net — 1:0.
After the goal, the Portuguese completely controlled the initiative, but failed to build on their success. Moreover, towards the end of the first half, the "Selecao" managed to concede. In the fifth minute of added time, Newcastle striker Yoan Wissa responded to a cross and accurately headed from close range. This goal became the first, debut goal in the history of the DR Congo at the World Cup.
Second Half: A Siege That Bore No Fruit
In the second half, Roberto Martinez's charges staged a real siege of the opponent's goal. The Portuguese attacked a lot and had several 100% chances to snatch three points. However, the African team played excellently in defense, withstood the furious pressure, and maintained a sensational draw for themselves.
Situation in the Group and Prospects
Portugal's loss of points complicated the situation in the group. Both teams currently have one point to their credit. The other representatives of this quartet — the national teams of Colombia and the World Cup debutant Uzbekistan — will play their head-to-head match on Thursday, June 18, at 5:00 AM Kyiv time.
In the event of a victory, the Colombians will get an excellent chance to lead the table alone after the first round. Ahead of Portugal are matches against Uzbekistan and Colombia.
New Format of the World Championship
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is unique because for the first time in history it is taking place simultaneously in three host countries: the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Moreover, this is the first tournament in which 48 national teams participate in the final stage, divided into 12 groups. This format has significantly increased the number of sensations and fierce confrontations already at the first round stage.