Portugal were held 1-1 by DR Congo in their World Cup opener, while England defeated Croatia 4-2 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match.
Portugal Held by Resilient DR Congo in World Cup Opener
Portugal were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against an impressive DR Congo side in their opening FIFA World Cup match after failing to capitalise on their early dominance.
Joao Neves gave Portugal the perfect start, heading home from Pedro Neto’s cross in the sixth minute. Despite controlling possession for much of the contest, Roberto Martinez’s side struggled to create clear-cut chances and managed only one shot on target throughout the match.
DR Congo, making only their second World Cup appearance and their first since competing as Zaire in 1974, produced a disciplined defensive display and looked dangerous on the counter-attack. Their persistence paid off in first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa rose unmarked to head in Arthur Masuaku’s cross, scoring DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup goal.
Cedric Bakambu also threatened for the African side, while Portugal’s best opportunities after the break fell to captain Cristiano Ronaldo. Playing in his sixth World Cup finals to equal Lionel Messi’s record, the 41-year-old narrowly missed the target twice and was denied the chance to become the first player to score in six different World Cups.
The draw marks a promising start for the world-ranked 46th DR Congo, while Portugal will be left frustrated after an underwhelming attacking display despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession.
England Begin World Cup Campaign with Thrilling Victory Over Croatia
England kicked off their FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas. Thomas Tuchel’s side showcased their attacking prowess, although defensive lapses allowed Croatia to remain competitive throughout the contest.
Harry Kane opened the scoring in the 12th minute from the penalty spot after Luka Modrić fouled Noni Madueke. Although Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livaković saved Kane’s initial effort, the penalty was retaken after Livaković was adjudged to have moved off his line, with Kane making no mistake the second time.
Croatia responded strongly, equalising in the 36th minute through Martin Baturina’s powerful strike. Kane restored England’s lead before half-time with a commanding header from Declan Rice’s corner, taking his World Cup tally to 10 goals and drawing level with Gary Lineker. However, Croatia struck again just before the interval as Petar Musa converted Ivan Perišić’s headed pass to make it 2-2.
England regained control shortly after the restart when Jude Bellingham produced a brilliant solo run and clinical finish to put his side back in front. Substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the victory with a calm finish five minutes from full-time, ensuring England secured all three points.
The entertaining victory gives England a strong start in Group L as they now prepare to face Ghana in their next fixture in Boston.
