According to Sofascore, the 41-year-old captain earned a rating of 6.1, the lowest among Portugal’s starters. During his 90 minutes on the pitch, Ronaldo recorded 25 touches, attempted three shots without hitting the target, and lost possession three times.
Portugal entered the match as clear favorites but failed to capitalize on an early lead.
Roberto Martinez’s side appeared to be in control when midfielder Joao Neves opened the scoring in the sixth minute. However, Portugal struggled to create meaningful chances afterward and gradually lost momentum.
Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (L) controls the ball as Congo’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka defends during the World Cup Group K football match between Portugal and Congo in Houston, June 17, 2026. Photo by AP |
DR Congo, coached by Sebastien Desabre, grew into the game and threatened on several counterattacks before finding a deserved equalizer through Yoane Wissa in first-half stoppage time.
As Portugal searched for a winner, much of their attacking play centered on Ronaldo. The approach yielded little success against a disciplined DR Congo defense that remained compact and well organized throughout the match.
Ronaldo endured a frustrating afternoon, rarely finding space in dangerous areas and failing to register a shot on target. Several opportunities fell his way in the second half, but he was unable to make a decisive impact.
The result leaves Portugal with work to do in Group K, where they still face Colombia and Uzbekistan in their remaining matches.
If Martinez’s side hope to make a deep run in the tournament, they will need to improve their attacking efficiency and find ways to reduce their dependence on Ronaldo while getting more from the players around him.
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