Ngal’ayel Mukau Says Ronaldo ‘Isn’t the Same as Before’ After DR Congo Hold Portugal to 2026 World Cup Draw

Portugal’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign began with a shock stalemate against DR Congo in Texas, with the African underdogs holding Roberto Martínez’s side to a draw in what proved to be a chastening evening for captain Cristiano Ronaldo.

The result extended Ronaldo’s difficult run at major international tournaments — the veteran striker has now gone ten consecutive games at World Cups and European Championships without scoring, a sequence that has intensified scrutiny over his continued role as Portugal’s focal point at 41 years of age.

DR Congo midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau did not shy away from addressing Ronaldo’s decline directly when speaking to reporters after the final whistle. “We know that Ronaldo isn’t the same as before. He’s a bit older now. But still, he’s one of the greatest to play the game… much respect to him,” Mukau told reporters, as cited by PulseSports. “When you get old like that, it’s not the same. It’s not the same effort that you can make.”

Asked whether DR Congo had devised a specific tactical plan to neutralise the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, Mukau was equally straightforward. “A special plan to contain Cristiano Ronaldo? To be honest, not really,” he said. “We know that he isn’t the same as before.”

The match itself followed a dramatic arc. Portugal appeared to be on course for a comfortable opening victory when João Neves headed home in the sixth minute to put the European side in front. However, DR Congo responded with growing confidence and were rewarded just before the interval when forward Yoane Wissa equalised to make it 1-1 at half-time.

Portugal pressed for a winner throughout the second half but were unable to breach a disciplined DR Congo defensive structure, which held firm until the final whistle. For DR Congo, it represented their first World Cup point in 52 years — a significant milestone for a nation making a long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage.

Ronaldo, who faced criticism from former players and pundits following the result, responded on social media with a message urging his teammates to refocus. The Portugal captain called on the squad to put the disappointment behind them and concentrate on their remaining Group K fixtures against Uzbekistan and Colombia.

The draw leaves Portugal in a complicated position in Group K, where points will be at a premium if the European side are to advance with the momentum expected of a team widely regarded as contenders. Ronaldo’s form and fitness will continue to be a central talking point, particularly given his age and the mounting evidence of his diminished physical output at the highest level.

For DR Congo, the result will be celebrated as a landmark moment. Having qualified for the tournament after an extended absence from the World Cup, holding one of Europe’s most decorated nations — and denying Ronaldo a goal — represents a statement performance that will resonate across the continent.