Ronaldo storms off as Portugal held 1-1 by DR Congo in World Cup opener

Cristiano Ronaldo cut a lonely and frustrated figure as he stormed off the pitch following Portugal's unexpected 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their 2026 World Cup opener. While the rest of the squad stayed out to acknowledge the significant Portuguese support in Houston, the captain opted for a swift exit to the dressing room.

He paused briefly to acknowledge some fans and shook hands with a member of the DR Congo coaching staff, but did not join the traditional post-match lap of appreciation. Joao Neves opened the scoring early, but Yoane Wissa levelled and the Group Stage opener finished in a stalemate.

The 41-year-old forward showed visible disappointment at full time, walking with his head down after several chances went begging. In contrast, Portugal's other players remained on the pitch, led by senior figures who visited every corner of the stadium to thank the thousands of fans who had turned Houston into a sea of red and green.

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