Focus on Africa at the World Cup 2026 DR Congo 1-1 Portugal NRG Stadium, Houston, USA

ew gave DR Congo much chance against a Portugal side that dominated 75% possession and completed 724 accurate passes, but the Leopards delivered one of the biggest African performances of the tournament so far. Despite spending long periods without the ball, DR Congo matched Portugal's intensity, outshot them 8-7, posted a higher xG (0.87 vs 0.65), and deservedly came away with a 1-1 draw.

Portugal struck first through João Neves in the 6th minute, but DR Congo remained disciplined and found their reward when Yoane Wissa equalised in first-half stoppage time (45+5').

Match Story

On paper, Portugal appeared in complete control:

• 75% possession
• 783 passes
• 101 final-third entries
• 29 touches in the opposition box

Yet DR Congo frustrated them throughout.

The Leopards defended aggressively, winning:

• 58% of ground duels
• More tackles (17 vs 12)
• More successful dribbles (8 vs 5)

Most importantly, they prevented Portugal from turning possession into chances.

Portugal managed:

• Just 7 shots
• Only 1 shot on target
• xG of just 0.65

For a team packed with attacking talent, that is an outstanding defensive achievement by DR Congo.

Deduction African Man of the Match

Yoane Wissa (8.0)

The Brentford forward produced a complete centre-forward display.

Key Statistics

• Goal: 1
• xG: 0.42
• xGOT: 0.81
• Shots: 2
• Shots on Target: 1
• 89% passing accuracy
• 16 sprints
• 10.3 km covered
• 3 fouls won
• 4 ground duels won

Wissa's movement constantly troubled Portugal's defence and his clinical finish before halftime completely changed the momentum of the match.

Defensive Heroes

Arthur Masuaku (7.0)

Masuaku produced arguably his best performance of the tournament.

Key Contributions

• Assist: 1
• xA: 0.33
• Big Chances Created: 1
• Key Passes: 2
• 81% passing accuracy
• 3 defensive contributions

His delivery for Wissa's goal was superb and he balanced attacking intent with defensive discipline.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka (6.9)

The former England defender was outstanding defensively.

Highlights

• 10 defensive actions
• 7 clearances
• 1 interception
• 1 last-man tackle
• 15 sprints
• 89% passing accuracy

Wan-Bissaka repeatedly shut down Portugal's attacks and showed why he remains one of Africa's premier defensive full-backs.

Chancel Mbemba (6.5)

The veteran captain led by example.

Defensive Numbers

• 5 clearances
• 1 interception
• 1 blocked shot
• Won every ground duel

His leadership helped DR Congo remain organised throughout prolonged defensive phases.

Midfield Engine Room

Samuel Moutoussamy (6.5)

The Nantes midfielder covered enormous ground.

Statistics

• 11.6 km covered (team high)
• 84% passing accuracy
• 4 recoveries
• 4/7 ground duels won

His work rate was essential in helping DR Congo compete against Portugal's technically superior midfield.

Edo Kayembe (6.7)

One of DR Congo's most effective ball carriers.

Performance

• 6/8 ground duels won
• 2 successful dribbles
• Shot on target
• 83% passing accuracy

He consistently drove the team forward during transition moments.

Defensive Performance of the Match

DR Congo Back Four

The defensive unit deserves immense credit.

Combined Impact

• 27 clearances
• 17 tackles
• 5 interceptions
• Portugal restricted to:
  • 1 shot on target
  • 0 big chances scored
  • xG of just 0.65

Against one of Europe's elite nations, that is a remarkable defensive display.

Areas for Improvement

Goalkeeper Distribution

Lionel Mpasi Nzau struggled with his passing.

Concerns

• 36% passing accuracy
• 11% long-ball accuracy
• Several possessions immediately returned to Portugal

Against stronger opponents, DR Congo will need cleaner build-up play.

Deduction Performance Ratings

Player

Rating

Yoane Wissa

8.0

Arthur Masuaku

7.0

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

6.9

Cedric Bakambu

6.9

Edo Kayembe

6.7

Chancel Mbemba

6.5

Samuel Moutoussamy

6.5

Ngal'ayel Mukau

6.5

Axel Tuanzebe

6.4

Steve Kapuadi

6.4

Lionel Mpasi Nzau

6.0

Deduction Verdict

This was one of the most impressive African performances of the World Cup so far.

Portugal dominated possession, territory and passing numbers, but DR Congo were more efficient, more physical and arguably created the better chances. The Leopards demonstrated tactical discipline, defensive resilience and clinical finishing to earn a fully deserved point.

Deduction Rating: 8.5/10

Result: Portugal 1-1 DR Congo
African Team Performance Grade: A

With displays like this, DR Congo are proving they are not merely participants

at World Cup 2026—they are genuine contenders to reach the knockout stages.