Cristiano Ronaldo addressed Portugal's opening match 1-1 draw with DR Congo at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating the setback would not derail the team's campaign. In a post on social media, Ronaldo wrote: 'This is not the start we wanted, but it's very far from the end. Focus on the next game.'
Playing in Houston in Portugal's Group K opener, Ronaldo made his 12th appearance at the World Cup, a record for European players. The Portugal captain delivered a strong performance despite his team's failure to convert chances and secure three points.
Portugal's next fixture is against Uzbekistan in Group K on 23 June, where they will seek to bounce back from their opening draw and improve their position in the group standings.
Portugal's opening draw may affect their tournament odds and could influence qualification market assessments in Group K, with their clash against Uzbekistan crucial to their knockout-stage prospects.