The Portugal national team unexpectedly dropped points in their first World Cup match, drawing with the DR Congo, while England started with a bright victory over Croatia. The main heroes of the day were Cristiano Ronaldo, who set a historic achievement, and Harry Kane, who scored a double.
The Portugal national team failed to start the World Cup with a victory. In the Group L match, Cristiano Ronaldo's team drew 1:1 with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Despite being the favorites, the Portuguese were unable to maintain the lead they secured early in the match. In the sixth minute, João Neves won an aerial battle after a cross from Pedro Neto and opened the scoring with a header. However, just before halftime, the DR Congo managed to equalize: after a corner kick, Yoan Wissa also headed the ball into the net.
In the second half, the African team looked equally dangerous. Cedric Bakambu was particularly active, creating several sharp moments, and after one of his shots, Portugal was saved by the post.
A notable event of the match was the appearance of Cristiano Ronaldo on the field. The Portuguese became only the second player in history to play in six World Cups. Previously, this achievement was only reached by Argentine Lionel Messi.
Meanwhile, the England national team delivered one of the most high-scoring matches of the opening round, defeating Croatia 4:2. The main hero of the match was England's captain Harry Kane, who scored two goals.
Already in the 12th minute, he converted a penalty that had to be retaken after Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković left the goal line prematurely. Later, Kane scored again after a corner kick.
The Croatians managed to equalize twice thanks to goals from Martin Baturina and Petar Musa, but after the break, England regained the initiative.
First, Jude Bellingham scored, finishing a quick attack, and then Marcus Rashford set the final score, skillfully dealing with a defender in the penalty area.
For Kane, this goal double was historic. He now has 81 goals for the England national team, ten of which were scored in World Cups. By this measure, he matched the achievement of the legendary Gary Lineker.
After the first round, England topped their group, while Portugal unexpectedly complicated their fight for first place by dropping points against a team considered one of the outsiders of the group.
The 2026 World Cup is being held for the first time with 48 teams. The tournament is hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and the group stage will conclude on June 27.
