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Cristiano Ronaldo Fails to Fire as DR Congo Earn Historic World Cup Point Against Portugal

Ronaldo had 25 touches and no shots on target as Portugal managed only one effort on goal and DR Congo earned a historic point.

  • On Wednesday, Portugal drew 1-1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo in their FIFA World Cup opener at NRG Stadium, with Joao Neves scoring early before Yoane Wissa equalized in stoppage time.
  • The result marked a historic milestone for Congo, earning a point in their first tournament appearance in 52 years after showing discipline to neutralize Portugal's early advantage.
  • Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo struggled throughout the 90 minutes, recording only 25 touches according to ESPN and failing to register a shot on target while missing two late opportunities.
  • Following the match, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said his team 'lost a bit of our attacking depth,' while rivals Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland delivered strong opening performances.
  • As the FIFA World Cup Golden Boot race intensifies, Ronaldo must regain form to keep Portugal's tournament aspirations alive following this disappointing draw against the African debutants.
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Dagens Nyheter.Dagens Nyheter.
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The opening round of the World Cup has been a star-studded affair, with Lionel Messi, Erling Braut Haaland and Kylian Mbappe leading their teams to victory. But when Cristiano Ronaldo stepped into the tournament, the thunderous applause and cheers were absent.

·Stockholm, Sweden
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Dagens Nyheter. broke the news in Stockholm, Sweden on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
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