17/06/2026 21:11 - Deportes
Futbolista portugués frustrado tras fallar gol, con celular mostrando memes en segundo plano
Portugal, considered a strong contender for the 2026 World Cup title, struggled in their opening match, finishing in a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo at the NRG Stadium in Houston. The European side, placed in Group K alongside Colombia and Uzbekistan, failed to break down the African defense despite holding 75% of the possession.
The match started promisingly for Portugal. At the 6-minute mark, Joao Neves headed in a cross from Pedro Neto to put his team ahead. The goal celebration was emotional, as Neves pointed to the sky in tribute to Diogo Jota, his teammate who tragically passed away the previous year. However, the lead was short-lived. In the final moments of the first half, Yoane Wissa (Newcastle United) headed in the equalizer following a corner kick by Arthur Masuaku.
Cristiano Ronaldo, playing in his record-equalling sixth World Cup—matching the milestone set by Lionel Messi just a day prior—had two clear scoring chances. In the 68th and 73rd minutes, the Portuguese captain found himself face-to-face with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi but failed to convert, sending his shots wide. His quiet performance quickly became the subject of online ridicule.
The focus on the forward's age—he turns 42 in February—was central to many jokes. Social media users edited photos to exaggerate wrinkles, while others drew unflattering comparisons to the speed of elderly cartoon characters.
| Date: | June 17, 2026 |
| Venue: | NRG Stadium, Houston |
| Score: | Portugal 1-1 DR Congo |
| Scorers: | Neves (6'), Wissa (45'+) |
| Group: | Group K |
The internet humor was driven by the stark contrast with other football superstars. While Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick for Argentina (equaling Miroslav Klose's historic record), and both Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland netted braces for their respective teams, Ronaldo remained scoreless against Congo.
Viral memes depicted Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland celebrating, contrasted with images of Ronaldo's missed chances, highlighting the difficult start for the Portuguese icon.
Following the match, the Al Nassr striker addressed fans on social media: "Not the start we wanted, but this is far from over. Heads up and focus on the next game." Ronaldo aims to become the first player to score in six different World Cups. Portugal's next challenge is against Uzbekistan on Tuesday, June 23 in Houston.
Group K features Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia. While Portugal entered as the favorite, this opening draw raises questions about their tactical solidity moving forward in the tournament.
Sources: Infobae, TyC Sports, La Capital MDP
Alfredo S. Quiroga
