Portugal’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign got off to a disappointing start after a surprising 1-1 draw against DR Congo exposed serious concerns in Roberto Martinez’s side.
Despite dominating possession and completing hundreds of passes, Portugal failed to translate control into meaningful attacking opportunities. The result has sparked fresh debate about Cristiano Ronaldo’s role in the team and the creative struggles of Bruno Fernandes.
Portugal Dominate Possession but Lack Purpose
Portugal entered the match as overwhelming favourites but failed to impose themselves against a disciplined DR Congo side.
The European giants completed 783 passes and controlled large periods of possession. However, that dominance produced only seven shots throughout the match, matching their joint-lowest total in a FIFA World Cup game.
In contrast, DR Congo completed just 249 passes yet managed eight shots, underlining their direct and efficient approach.
The statistics painted a clear picture: Portugal had the ball but struggled to create genuine danger.
Early Goal Masks Deeper Problems
Portugal made a bright start when João Neves found the net inside the opening 10 minutes.
However, rather than building momentum, Portugal gradually lost attacking sharpness as the match progressed.
DR Congo remained organised defensively and looked dangerous whenever they attacked. Their persistence was rewarded when Yoane Wissa scored a historic equaliser, securing the African nation’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal and first point in tournament history.
The result will be remembered as one of the early surprises of FIFA World Cup 2026.
Cristiano Ronaldo Left Isolated
Much of the spotlight inevitably fell on Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Portugal captain made history by appearing in his sixth FIFA World Cup, but the performance highlighted the challenges he faces at this stage of his career.
Ronaldo finished the match with only 25 touches, the fewest he has recorded in a major international tournament game while completing the full 90 minutes.
Operating almost exclusively as a penalty-box striker, he received limited service and struggled to influence the contest.
Without consistent support from midfield, Ronaldo spent much of the evening waiting for opportunities that never arrived.
Bruno Fernandes Fails to Unlock Defence
If Ronaldo suffered from a lack of service, attention quickly turned to Bruno Fernandes.
Widely regarded as Portugal’s chief playmaker, Fernandes was expected to bridge the gap between midfield and attack.
Instead, he endured one of his quietest international performances.
Remarkably, Fernandes failed to create a single chance during regular time. His first recorded chance creation came only in stoppage time, reflecting Portugal’s inability to break down DR Congo’s compact defensive structure.
While he helped maintain possession, the decisive passes Portugal desperately needed never materialised.
Midfield Control Without Creativity
Portugal’s midfield trio of Bruno Fernandes, João Neves and Vitinha controlled possession comfortably but struggled to provide penetration.
Vitinha, who entered the tournament following an outstanding club season, recorded more than 120 touches but created only one chance.
The lack of line-breaking passes allowed DR Congo to remain compact and deny Ronaldo meaningful opportunities inside dangerous areas.
For a team filled with technical quality, the absence of creativity was perhaps the most concerning aspect of the performance.
Ronaldo’s Goal Drought Raises Questions
The draw has intensified scrutiny surrounding Ronaldo’s international future.
The veteran forward has now gone ten consecutive major tournament matches without scoring for Portugal across the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship.
During that run, he has registered 33 shots and 11 efforts on target without finding the net.
Although Ronaldo continues to command attention from defenders and remains a threat inside the penalty area, the prolonged drought has led to growing debate over whether Portugal should adjust his role within the squad.
Should Roberto Martinez Follow the 2022 Blueprint?
The discussion inevitably recalls former coach Fernando Santos’ bold decision to bench Ronaldo during key matches at the FIFA World Cup 2022.
While controversial, many observers believed the move prioritised team balance over individual status.
Ahead of World Cup 2026, several football analysts suggested that Ronaldo might be more effective as an impact substitute against tired defences.
Portugal’s frustrating draw against DR Congo is likely to strengthen those arguments.
Introducing Ronaldo in the latter stages of matches could allow him to exploit spaces with his movement and finishing instincts while reducing the physical demands of starting every game.
Tougher Challenges Await Portugal
For now, Roberto Martinez appears committed to keeping Ronaldo at the centre of his plans.
However, Portugal’s upcoming clash against Colombia presents an even greater test.
Unlike DR Congo, Colombia possess significant attacking quality and tactical organisation capable of punishing defensive lapses and midfield inefficiency.
If Portugal are to progress deep into FIFA World Cup 2026, they must quickly find solutions to their creative problems and rediscover the attacking fluency expected from one of Europe’s strongest squads.
The opening match served as a warning that possession alone will not guarantee success on football’s biggest stage.
