DR Congo secures historic World Cup point in 1-1 draw with Portugal
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Democratic Republic of Congo achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever World Cup point, drawing 1-1 with Portugal in their Group K match. Yoane Wissa's header for DR Congo canceled out an early goal from Portugal's Joao Neves. Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, made his record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance but was a largely peripheral figure. The DR Congo, appearing in their first World Cup since 1974, demonstrated a strong performance despite disruptions to their preparations due to an Ebola outbreak in their country. Portugal's Prime Minister Luis Montenegro provided wristbands to some players in tribute to their late teammate Diogo Jota. Portugal initially took the lead in the sixth minute through Neves, but Wissa equalized in first-half added time, scoring DR Congo's first-ever World Cup goal. Portugal had a goal disallowed for offside, and Cedric Bakambu hit the post for DR Congo. Ronaldo had opportunities but failed to convert, sending two shots wide of the post.
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