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João Neves scores early goal for Portugal in World Cup match against Congo

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 5:59 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

João Neves scores early goal for Portugal in World Cup match against Congo

Summary

Portugal began its 2026 World Cup campaign with a match against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. João Neves, a 21-year-old midfielder, scored the opening goal within the first ten minutes. All attention was on Cristiano Ronaldo, who is seeking to make history by scoring in a sixth World Cup, but it was Neves who gave Portugal the lead. The match is taking place at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, and Ronaldo will have additional opportunities to score in upcoming matches.

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Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•João Neves opened scoring within ten minutes for Portugal.
•Portugal faces Democratic Republic of the Congo at NRG Stadium.
•Cristiano Ronaldo aims to become the first to score in six World Cups.
•Portugal's next matches are on June 23 and June 27.

Latest Updates

5:59 PMYahoo Sports — Who scored goal for Portugal? World Cup strike vs. Congo came from this young player

What they're saying

"
No, Ronaldo did not score first for Portugal in their 2026 World Cup opener vs. Congo. It was this 21-year-old who gave his team an early lead.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Inter Miami MLS Soccer

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External links

Yahoo SportsJun 17, 2026, 5:59 PM
Who scored goal for Portugal? World Cup strike vs. Congo came from this young player
No, Ronaldo did not score first for Portugal in their 2026 World Cup opener vs. Congo. It was this 21-year-old who gave his team an early lead.

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