World Cup 2026: DR Congo Showed Courage, Resilience Against Portugal -Wissa

DR Congo star Yoane Wissa has disclosed that the team showed immense courage and resilience after securing a historic 1-1 draw against Portugal in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match.

Wissa, who plays his club football for Newcastle United, scored the equalizer just before halftime at Houston’s NRG Stadium.

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Midfielder Joao Neves headed Portugal into a sixth-minute lead, but Roberto Martinez’s side failed to convert their dominance of possession into attempts on goal.

And they were punished in the fifth minute of first-half stoppage time when Newcastle striker Yoane Wissa was left unmarked to meet Arthur Masuaku’s cross from six yards to head home DR Congo’s first World Cup goal.

Speaking about the result against the European heavyweights, he stated that despite playing a stronger team, the squad stood their ground.

He also dedicated the historic point and goal to his nation, noting the importance of fighting for the people back home.

“I’m obviously very proud today (Wednesday) because we’ve worked extremely hard. It was a very difficult match against a team that was stronger than us.

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“But we showed courage and resilience. Scoring our first goal is a huge source of pride because it reflects the character of this team. The most important thing now is to keep going.”

Portugal face World Cup debutants Uzbekistan in Houston on Tuesday, 23 June.

Meanwhile, DR Congo head to Mexico for their next Group K game against Colombia in Guadalajara on 24 June.