Portugal began their World Cup campaign with a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in Houston on Wednesday afternoon.
Roberto Martínez’s side took the lead after just six minutes when João Neves met a pinpoint cross from Pedro Neto and powered a header past the goalkeeper.
They dominated possession for much of the first half and appeared in control, but DR Congo refused to back down. Their persistence paid off deep into first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa rose highest to head home from a corner and send the teams into the break at 1-1.
Portugal searched for a winning goal after halftime, with Cristiano Ronaldo coming closest on two occasions, while João Cancelo saw an effort ruled out for offside. DR Congo, however, remained dangerous on the counterattack and nearly snatched all three points when Cédric Bakambu struck the post.
In the end, the sides had to settle for a share of the points, a frustrating result for Portugal and a historic one for DR Congo in the first-ever meeting between the two nations.
Joao Neves was named the Man of the Match.
QUOTES
“We started the match very well. Scoring should have been a great moment, but it wasn’t. I think we lost a bit of our attacking depth, lost fluency in possession, and allowed them to regain their shape somewhat. The confidence they gained after the goal made the game very difficult, but that’s what happens at World Cups. I’m very satisfied with the team’s attitude. It wasn’t a problem of lacking commitment or heart; we kept trying until the very end. We can grow a lot from this match,” Roberto Martinez
“It was my first World Cup match, and I’m happy with my performance. But, as I always say, what matters is the team. There are things we need to improve. What we really need are victories. The squad is united and determined to get better.” Joao Neves
