Joao Cancelo expressed frustration after Portugal's opening World Cup match on June 17, saying the 1-1 draw with DR Congo felt like a defeat. The Bayern Munich defender highlighted the team's possession control but criticized their lack of clear opportunities. "Draw feels like defeat. Portugal controlled the game through possession, but created insufficient chances," Cancelo said.
DR Congo earned their first-ever World Cup point through Yoanne Wissa's goal, holding firm despite Portugal's dominance. Cancelo's post-match comments suggest the Portuguese squad views the result as a missed opportunity in their World Cup campaign.