Martinez confirmed. Portugal will improve in the World Cup after drawing 1-1 with DR Congo.

Portugal starts the 2026 World Cup with a slight disappointment. After opening the match in Houston, they tied 1-1 with DR Congo, with Joa Neves scoring a goal to give Portugal an early lead. But before the end of the first half, Yoan Wissa tied for Congo to end the first half at 1-1. Game statistics indicate that the Portuguese team only managed one shot on target in this match. and had a total of seven shooting opportunities Equal to their joint-fewest goalscoring record at the World Cup. (the same as against South Korea in 2002) While DR Congo had eight shots in total, Joa Cancelo had a somersault shot in the second half that was reclaimed for offside. Roberto the coach Martinez insists there is no need to be alarmed by the results of the opening match. And he sees Portugal still having a chance to improve in the tournament: “This is the World Cup. which has many emotions We all talk about wanting to win. But it is a process in which we must grow in matters that matter. We must evaluate and develop. We didn't lose this game. We have one point,” he said. Martinez also pointed out that Portugal started the game well until they conceded. This changed the style of play and gave Congo an opportunity to adjust the pressure and counterattack: “Congo's goal came at a difficult time for us. But I think we responded well. The attitude of the players is amazing. I'm not satisfied with the performance. But I like their attitude and what they tried to do until the last second,” he said. As for Cristiano Ronaldo, who played as the oldest field player in this World Cup. Still unable to score a goal for the national team for the 10th consecutive match in a major tournament. (Euro and World Cup) in a row when asked if Ronaldo is too lonely. Martinez responded: “What it doesn't do is choose. We must evaluate the game objectively. We have players between the lines like Bernardo and Bruno who are some of the best players in the world. We have a lot of good players and have to use everyone to our advantage.” DR Congo celebrates history When the gate of Joan Wissa scored the team's first goal at the World Cup. And it was also the first point of the country. Coach Sebastian Desaber expressed his pride in his team's performance: “It is a source of great pride that Congo DR got its first point and first goal at the World Cup. The players showed incredible determination and sacrifice. We executed the game plan the way we wanted and I am proud of the players.” This draw leaves Portugal with one point in Group K and must make amends ahead of the remaining group stage games. Martinez confirmed that the team has two games to evaluate and improve with the goal of advancing to the next round. --- ## Related Articles 1. [Mundial 2026](https://azkalsgoal.com/fil/news/cristiano-ronaldo-pinahiya-ng-messi-chant-matapos-mabigo-ang-portugal-kontra-dr-congo) 2. [Rondje Copa: Portugal joga com dez enquanto Ronaldo estiver em campo](https://torcidanet.live/pt/news/rondje-copa-portugal-joga-com-dez-enquanto-ronaldo-estiver-em-campo)