Cristiano Ronaldo set an unwanted record as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, June 17. The Al Nassr star captained Portugal but failed to find the net, extending his goal drought in major tournaments to 10 matches.
Match Summary
Portugal took an early lead in the sixth minute when Joao Neves headed home from close range. However, that proved to be Portugal's only shot on target in the entire match. Despite dominating possession, the Selecao struggled to create clear chances and lacked sharpness in attack.
DR Congo grew in confidence and equalised deep into first-half stoppage time through Yoane Wissa of Newcastle United. This was DR Congo's first goal at a World Cup since 1974, when the nation competed as Zaire.
Ronaldo's Missed Opportunity
Ronaldo had a golden chance to restore Portugal's lead in the second half after being set up by Francisco Conceicao, but he dragged his effort wide. The match ended 1-1, leaving Portugal second in Group K behind DR Congo.
Goal Drought Continues
According to Sky Sports, Ronaldo has now gone 10 consecutive matches without scoring for Portugal in major competitions. He failed to score at the 2022 World Cup against Uruguay, South Korea, Switzerland, and Morocco, and drew blanks at Euro 2024 against Czechia, Turkey, Georgia, Slovenia, and France.
Against DR Congo, Ronaldo registered neither a goal nor an assist despite Portugal having 80% possession in the first half.
Fan Reactions
Portugal fans expressed frustration on social media. @Xtopherewesi said: "Roberto Martinez should grow some balls and bench him." @Shadrack_SNBMO wrote: "Can someone please bench Ronaldo for Felix?" @Jef_Musab added: "Ronaldo still hasn't scored in 10 big games for Portugal. That hurts to watch."
Portugal Sends Message to Messi
The Portuguese national team reacted online after Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria earlier in the tournament, fueling debate about the rivalry between the two football greats.
