Yoane Wissa scored the first-ever FIFA World Cup goal for DR Congo during a match against Portugal on June 17, 2026 [1].

The goal represents a historic milestone for the nation, ending a half-century absence from the world's premier soccer tournament.

The match took place in Houston, Texas, as part of Group K play [4]. Wissa's strike helped secure a 1-1 draw for DR Congo against the Portuguese side [2]. The result marks a significant achievement for the team in its debut appearance under the current national banner [1].

This appearance is the first for the country since the nation previously competed as Zaire in 1974 [3]. The gap between those appearances spanned 52 years [3]. By securing a point against a powerhouse like Portugal, DR Congo has established an immediate presence in the tournament's group stage [2].

The match in Houston served as a homecoming for the sport in the U.S. and a breakthrough for the Congolese squad. Wissa, the forward who netted the historic goal, has now etched his name into the sporting record of his country [1].

“Yoane Wissa scored the first-ever FIFA World Cup goal for DR Congo”

This result signals a resurgence for DR Congo on the global stage. By scoring their first World Cup goal and securing a draw against a high-ranking opponent like Portugal, the team has transitioned from a historic curiosity, having not appeared since 1974, to a competitive entity in the 2026 tournament.