Portugal held to 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their World Cup 2026 opener

The roar when Ronaldo first took possession as the clock struck two minutes, thrilling the masses with a sideways pass to João Cancelo, underlined who a giant swathe of those present had arrived to witness.

João Neves gave the Portuguese an early lead, but Yoane Wissa's equaliser just before half-time earned the Leopards a crucial point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.

In his sixth – and presumably final – World Cup, Ronaldo will look to guide a team with huge strength in depth behind him towards the latter stages despite questions over whether he is now more hindrance than help to head coach Roberto Martinez.

Wednesday looks set to be another busy day at the tournament, with several important matches taking place, starting with Portugal vs DR Dongo in Houston.