HOUSTON - Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo faced a frustrating start to their World Cup campaign Wednesday, settling for a 1-1 draw against Group K rival Democratic Republic of Congo in rainy conditions.
Pre-tournament favorites Portugal struck early. Pedro Neto delivered a cross in the sixth minute, finding Joao Neves for a header from 15 meters. However, that goal marked their only shot on target for the entire match.
DR Congo, making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, grew into the contest. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Yoane Wissa rose unmarked at the back post to head in an equalizer off a corner kick.
The second half remained tense. Cedric Bakambu hit the post for the Congolese, while Ronaldo fired wide twice from close range. The result caps a historic but difficult opening match for Ronaldo, who now shares the record for most World Cup appearances with Lionel Messi.