DR Congo equalizes against Portugal at World Cup with Yoane Wissa goal
Wissa's first-half strike gives DR Congo their first World Cup goal in 52 years, leveling the score 1-1 against Portugal in Houston
Yoane Wissa just wrote himself into DR Congo football history. The Newcastle United forward scored an equalizer against Portugal in Houston on June 17, drawing the Group K match level at 1-1 heading into halftime of their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener.
That goal carries weight far beyond a single point in the group standings. It was DR Congo’s first World Cup goal in 52 years, dating back to the last time the nation appeared on football’s biggest stage in 1974.
A half-century of waiting, ended before the break
Portugal struck first through João Neves, who headed home early in the match to put the favorites ahead.
Wissa found the net just before the halftime whistle, sending the Congolese contingent in Houston into delirium.
DR Congo qualified for this tournament through a playoff, earning their spot in a field that expanded to 48 teams for the first time under the new World Cup format. The 2026 edition is hosted jointly by Canada, Mexico, and the US.
The group stage challenge ahead
DR Congo sits in a group alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.
Wissa’s inclusion in DR Congo’s 26-man squad was announced in May 2026. The forward has been plying his trade in the English Premier League with Newcastle United.