W’Cup: Portugal, Congo DR Share Points In Dull Game

There was little to choose between Portugal and Congo DR on Wednesday when both teams met in their opening Group K match.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who often rescues Portugal, had a game to forget as he was largely a peripheral figure and was frustrated by his team’s lack of fluidity against the African side.

The match saw Portugal play quick passes, and they were rewarded when João Neves headed in the opening goal.

However, the game soon settled into a dull rhythm until Congo DR were rewarded in added time when Yoane Wissa equalised.

It was expected that, with the heat giving way to a predicted thunderstorm and rain, the two teams with attacking flair would serve up an exciting game.

However, that was not the case, despite occasional flashes from a few Portuguese players.

It was also a game of poor decision-making, especially when Francisco Conceição should have shot at goal when he was through on goal, but instead chose to pass to Ronaldo, who then scooped the ball wide.

Ronaldo again had another chance but shot wide amid an angry grimace.

Despite 728 passes from Portugal with 60% possession, compared to Congo DR’s 204 passes and 40% possession, Portugal could not find another goal.

The positive for Congo DR is that they have now scored their first World Cup goal, having failed to score in all three group games in 1964.