DR Congo stun Portugal with 1-1 draw in their World Cup opener

Cristiano Ronaldo‍‍`s sixth World Cup campaign got off to a disappointing start as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo. Returning to the tournament for the first time in 52 years since competing as Zaire in 1974, DR Congo produced a resilient performance to earn a valuable point.

Portugal started the match on the front foot and took an early lead. In the sixth minute, João Neves finished off a pass from Pedro Neto to put the Portuguese ahead. It was the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder‍‍`s fourth goal for the national team.

However, DR Congo struck back in the dying moments of first-half stoppage time. Arthur Masuaku delivered a cross from the right flank, and Newcastle United midfielder Yoane Wissa powered home a superb header to level the score.

Portugal thought they had restored their lead in the 55th minute when João Cancelo found the back of the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside. The Portuguese continued to push for a winner, yet DR Congo‍‍`s disciplined defense stood firm, denying Ronaldo and his teammates a breakthrough.

Ronaldo also reached another historic milestone on the night. By appearing in his sixth consecutive World Cup, he matched the record held by Lionel Messi. The Portugal captain also became the oldest outfield player ever to start a World Cup match, taking the field at the age of 41 years and 132 days.

Portugal will face Uzbekistan in their second group-stage match on Tuesday, June 23. The game is scheduled to kick off at 11:00 PM Bangladesh time.