Cristiano Ronaldo Responds After Portugal's Draw with DR Congo

Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo issued a message to supporters of his national team after Portugal's unexpected 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup.

The match, held in Houston, ended in a frustrating result for Ronaldo, who started and played the full ninety minutes. The two goals were scored in the first half, with João Neves opening the scoring with a header just five minutes into the game. However, Yowan Wissa equalized with another header during first-half stoppage time.

Despite several chances for both teams in the second half, Roberto Martínez's side could not convert their possession advantage into a winning goal.

Following the match, Ronaldo expressed his disappointment over the draw and called on Portuguese fans to support the team throughout the rest of the tournament. On his official X account, he wrote: "This was not the start we hoped for, but it is not over yet. Let's hold our heads high and focus on the next match."

Portugal is scheduled to play its next game on Tuesday against Uzbekistan, who will face Colombia later today in another Group 11 match.