Cristiano Ronaldo swept the headlines after Portugal’s 1‑1 draw with Congo DR in Houston. The 41‑year‑old controlled 78% possession but managed only one shot on target. He finished the match on the bench, saying nothing was lacking and that the game was merely a start.

Ronaldo, now the only player tied with Lionel Messi for six World Cup appearances, played every minute of the opener. His three shots missed the net, a sharp contrast to Messi’s hat‑trick in Argentina’s 3‑0 win over Algeria. The veteran admitted he hasn’t scored a non‑penalty goal in a major tournament since 2021.

After the match, Ronaldo posted on Instagram: “Heads up and focus on the next game.” He acknowledged the loss but stressed the tournament is far from over. Portugal will face Uzbekistan next Tuesday in Houston before a final clash with Colombia on June 27.

João Félix, who beat Ronaldo for the Saudi Pro League’s player of the season, said Portugal must learn from the first game. “We will definitely improve,” he added, pointing to the team’s need to correct early mistakes and win the next two matches to advance from Group K.