Portuguese Media Criticize Flat First-Half Display Against DR Congo

Portugal’s national team is playing the Democratic Republic of Congo in the opening round of the 2026 World Cup, and the first half ended 1-1. Portugal, the Nations League winner, drew sharp criticism from the Portuguese press over how it performed after scoring early.

Record, a Portuguese outlet, wrote that scoring in the sixth minute of a World Cup match is excellent, but spending the rest of the half passing the ball around instead of trying to extend the lead was a mistake. Senior commentator Tom Kundert gave a blunt assessment, calling it, “A mediocre performance by Portugal at best.”

Kundert said Portugal started well but paid the price for its approach, pointing to repeated goals conceded from crosses and calling that “a big problem that has not been addressed.” Journalist Alexandre Carvalho was even harsher, saying, “Martins’ football is all smoke and no fire.”

Carvalho said the team appears to control possession without truly playing polished football, adding that there is “no pace, no intensity, no depth,” and that Portugal is “a team that does not know how to defend.” The article was published by Sport 5 on June 17, 2026, at 21:17.