Joao Neves becomes third-youngest Portuguese scorer in FIFA World Cup history
Texas, June 18
Portugal's Joao Neves etched his name into the record books after becoming the third-youngest Portuguese scorer in FIFA World Cup history during their 1-1 draw against DR Congo in the 2026 edition.
Neves, aged 21 years and 263 days, found the net in Portugal's opening group-stage fixture, continuing a strong tradition of young Portuguese talent making an impact on football's biggest stage.
With this feat, he now sits behind only Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored at the 2006 World Cup at 21 years and 132 days, and Goncalo Ramos, who netted in 2022 at 21 years and 169 days.
Neves helped Portugal to get to a bright start, taking the lead in the sixth minute when Pedro Neto delivered a pinpoint cross, which helped him power a fine header into the far corner to score his fourth international goal.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo's Portugal were left frustrated after being held to a 1-1 draw by underdogs DR Congo in their opening World Cup group match, as Yoane Wissa's equaliser cancelled out Joao Neves' early strike.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who was making his sixth FIFA World Cup appearance, cut a subdued figure in attack, while Manchester United star Bernardo Silva also endured a difficult outing, with Roberto Martinez's side failing to justify their pre-tournament favourites tag.
However, after the early breakthrough, Portugal appeared to lose momentum, circulating possession without much urgency and creating only limited chances, while DR Congo threatened on the counter.
Their persistence was rewarded in first-half stoppage time when Wissa ghosted in unmarked to head home Arthur Masuaku's cross and bring the African side level.
Portugal briefly thought they had regained the lead early in the second half through an acrobatic effort from João Cancelo, but it was ruled out for offside. DR Congo then came close with Cedric Bakambu striking the post after outmuscling Bruno Fernandes in a warning sign for Portugal.
Late substitute Francisco Conceicão provided some spark for Portugal and created openings for Ronaldo, but the veteran striker was unable to convert as the Portuguese side continued to struggle in front of goal.
Despite late pressure, Portugal could not find a winner, as DR Congo held firm to claim a memorable point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm a huge CR7 fan but honestly, he looked off his game today. At 39, maybe it's time for Portugal to start building around younger talents like Neves? The golden generation is fading. On the bright side, that header from Neves was textbook! 😍
As someone who follows European football closely, this result doesn't surprise me. Portugal's midfield is strong but they lack a clinical finisher beyond Ronaldo. DR Congo played with heart - reminds me of how Indian football team punches above their weight sometimes. Wissa's goal was well-deserved! 🇮🇳
Neves joining Ronaldo and Ramos in elite company is amazing. But I feel Portugal's depth is overrated - Cancelo, Silva, and Fernandes all struggled to create chances. They're a one-man team these days. If DR Congo can hold them, teams like Brazil or Argentina will destroy them.
Young talent emerging is always good for football. But I'm more impressed by DR Congo's resilience - first World Cup in 52 years and they get a draw against a favorite! This World Cup is proving that the gap between traditional powers and African teams is shrinking. Salute to African football! 🌍⚽
I wish India could experience moments like this. Our national team needs to grow, but seeing African teams like DR Congo compete on the world stage gives hope. Neves is a star in the making, but Portugal's overall performance was lazy and complacent. Martinez needs to fix this ASAP.
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