New Delhi: The Democratic Republic of Congo scripted history at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Wednesday, holding Portugal to a 1-1 draw to earn their first-ever point at the tournament, while England and Colombia opened their campaigns with victories.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance ended in disappointment as DR Congo matched Portugal throughout their Group K clash. Joao Neves gave Portugal an early lead with a sixth-minute header, but Yoane Wissa equalised in first-half stoppage time with a towering header to score his country’s maiden World Cup goal.
Ronaldo, 41, struggled to make an impact and missed two second-half opportunities as Portugal failed to find a winner. The result was particularly significant for DR Congo, who are playing in their first World Cup since 1974 and whose preparations were disrupted by an Ebola outbreak back home.
Elsewhere, England survived a stern test from Croatia to secure a thrilling 4-2 victory in Texas. Captain Harry Kane scored twice in the first half to move level with Gary Lineker on 10 World Cup goals, the most by an England player.
Croatia fought back twice through Martin Baturina and Petar Musa, but Jude Bellingham restored England’s lead soon after half-time before substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the win late in the game.
In the other Group K match, Luis Diaz starred as Colombia defeated World Cup debutants Uzbekistan 3-1. Diaz set up Daniel Munoz for the opening goal before scoring himself in the second half to put Colombia back in front after Fayzullaev Abbosbek had briefly equalised.
Jaminton Campaz added a stoppage-time goal to complete the victory, sending Colombia to the top of Group K with three points. Portugal and DR Congo are level on one point each, while Uzbekistan sit bottom after their opening defeat.
The day’s results have set up an intriguing battle in Group K, with Colombia leading the way and Portugal already under pressure to bounce back in their next outing.
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