Cristiano Ronaldo scripts history, becomes oldest outfield starter in FIFA World Cup

Texas [US], June 18 (HBTV): Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo created history on Wednesday by becoming the oldest outfield player to start a match in FIFA World Cup history, taking the field against DR Congo at the age of 41 years and 132 days during Portugal's opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Ronaldo surpassed the previous record held by Atiba Hutchinson, who started for Canada against Croatia at the 2022 FIFA World Cup at the age of 39 years and 296 days, according to FotMob.

The Portuguese star achieved the milestone after being named in the starting XI against DR Congo, further extending his remarkable longevity at the highest level of international football.

Ronaldo also became only the second men's player in history to appear in six FIFA World Cups, joining Lionel Messi in the exclusive club.

His World Cup journey began in Germany in 2006 and continued through South Africa in 2010, Brazil in 2014, Russia in 2018, Qatar in 2022 and North America in 2026, representing Portugal across two decades on football's biggest stage.

Despite the historic achievement, Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their tournament opener, with Ronaldo struggling to influence the match.

The veteran forward finished with 25 touches, attempted three shots without hitting the target and won only one duel, highlighting the effectiveness of the DR Congo defence in containing him, according to ESPN FC.

It was also one of the least-involved matches of Ronaldo's World Cup career, marking the second-fewest touches he has recorded in a World Cup start.

The result also extended his goal drought in major tournaments to 10 consecutive matches.

Portugal made an ideal start when Pedro Neto delivered a precise cross for João Neves, who headed home in the sixth minute to score his fourth international goal and put his side ahead.

However, Portugal failed to build on their early advantage and struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, while DR Congo looked dangerous on the counterattack.

Their persistence paid off in first-half stoppage time when Yoane Wissa rose unmarked to head in Arthur Masuaku's cross and level the scores.

Portugal thought they had restored their lead early in the second half through an acrobatic effort from João Cancelo, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

DR Congo then came close to taking the lead when Cedric Bakambu struck the post after overpowering Bruno Fernandes.

Substitute Francisco Conceição injected energy into Portugal's attack late in the match and created chances for Ronaldo, but the veteran striker was unable to convert.

Despite sustained late pressure, Portugal could not find a winner as DR Congo secured a memorable point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.

(ANI)