DR Congo earns first World Cup point against Portugal

The Democratic Republic of Congo marked a big moment on Wednesday. They got their first-ever point at the FIFA World Cup after Yoane Wissa scored a brilliant equaliser. The Leopards came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Wissa's goal cancelled João Neves’ first-half header. This result is historic for the DRC, as they finally recorded their first point at a World Cup.

Facing one of the top teams in the tournament, Congo had a tough match against Ronaldo and his teammates. But they held their ground despite mostly having less possession. They did not fold under the growing pressure from the Portuguese team.

By halftime, Portugal had 80 percent of the ball, forcing the Leopards to defend deeply and stay compact. Wissa and Cédric Bakambu worked hard to press the Portuguese defense and disrupt their play.

Even after falling behind early, with Joao Neves scoring in the sixth minute, the Leopards did not give up. Coach Sebastien Desabre’s worst fears did not come true as the team did not crumble. The shadow of the 1974 World Cup did not shake their confidence.

Though they had limited possession, the winners of the FIFA Inter-confederation playoffs played boldly and with purpose when they got the ball. For 52 years, Congolese football has dealt with the disappointment of the Zaire team’s 1974 World Cup campaign in West Germany. That team did not perform well and faced early elimination in shame.