Top News

Cristiano Ronaldo appeared visibly dejected as he walked off the field alone following Portugal’s unexpected 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup. While the rest of the Portuguese squad stayed behind to applaud their travelling supporters in Houston, the veteran captain made his way straight to the dressing room.

Disappointment for the captain

The 41-year-old striker could not conceal his frustration at full-time after Portugal were held to a draw by their African opponents. Portugal had taken an early lead through Joao Neves, but Roberto Martinez’s men were later pegged back when Yoane Wissa equalised, leaving the contest level at the final whistle.

As soon as the referee ended the match, Ronaldo was one of the first to head down the tunnel. With his head lowered, he looked clearly upset about both the result and his own display, having missed several scoring chances. He briefly acknowledged a few fans and shook hands with a member of DR Congo’s coaching staff, but he did not stay for the customary lap of appreciation alongside his teammates.

Teammates applaud the Houston supporters

In contrast to their captain’s solitary exit, the rest of the Portuguese squad remained on the pitch for an extended period. Led by senior players, the group made a point of saluting all sections of the crowd, thanking the thousands of fans who had transformed the Houston venue into a vibrant display of red and green. The gesture underlined the difference between Ronaldo’s reaction and that of the rest of the team.

This tournament marks Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup appearance since his debut in 2006. Over his distinguished World Cup career, he has played 23 matches, scoring eight goals and providing two assists. Impressively, the Portuguese icon has scored in every previous edition of the competition he has contested.

Portugal look to recover quickly

Before the tournament began, head coach Roberto Martinez highlighted the importance of starting strongly. He said, “If we draw it is a catastrophe, if we lose it is the end of the world.” After the match, his tone was more measured, as he noted, “It’s part of what the World Cup is, now we have to analyse.”

With this result, Portugal will now turn their attention to their next challenge against Uzbekistan, before concluding their Group K fixtures with a crucial clash against Colombia.

Ronaldo still chasing elusive World Cup glory

Ronaldo remains determined to add the World Cup trophy to his remarkable list of honours, the only major title missing from his illustrious career. However, Portugal’s unconvincing start adds to the forward’s recent struggles, as he has now gone 10 consecutive major tournament matches without scoring – the longest goal drought of his international career.

The question now is how far Portugal can go in this World Cup, and whether Ronaldo can finally achieve the one title that has eluded him throughout his legendary journey.