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Yoane Wissa scores stoppage time equaliser for DR Congo in 1-1 draw with Portugal, their first ever World Cup goal, capping his comeback from a 2021 acid attack
FIFA World Cup 2026: Yoane Wissa scored for DR Congo against Portugal (AP)
When Yoane Wissa rose highest in stoppage time at Houston’s NRG Stadium to meet a cross from Arthur Masuaku and head past Diogo Costa, he did far more than rescue a point for DR Congo against Portugal.
His dramatic equaliser secured a 1-1 draw and etched his name into football history as the scorer of DR Congo’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal. It also ended a remarkable 52-year wait for a World Cup strike, dating back to the country’s only previous appearance, as Zaire, in 1974.
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Yoane Wissa’s Story Of Courage
The significance of the moment is even greater when set against Wissa’s extraordinary personal journey.
In July 2021, the striker was preparing to move from French club Lorient to Premier League side Brentford when his life changed in an instant. A woman posing as a supporter seeking an autograph approached his home and allegedly threw a corrosive substance into his face when he answered the door. Investigators later revealed that the attack was linked to an attempt to abduct his young daughter.
The injuries forced Wissa to undergo emergency surgery on both eyes. Recalling the terrifying incident during court proceedings, he said: “I opened a door, and had liquid thrown in my face. I screamed and could not breathe. My wife called the emergency services, and they told me to get under the shower to rinse my eyes… Someone had to come and rinse them out every hour. It has been a nightmare.”
The forward later admitted that the ordeal completely changed his outlook.
“After the attack I reacted like a father more than a footballer, and told myself at least my kids are unharmed even though I am blind,” he said.
The attack delayed his move to Brentford and left him dealing with severe trauma. Yet Wissa gradually rebuilt both his confidence and his career. Over four seasons in England, he developed into one of the Premier League’s most reliable forwards before earning a high-profile transfer to Newcastle United in 2025.
Although injuries disrupted his early months on Tyneside, Wissa fought back and helped DR Congo qualify for the 2026 World Cup. His historic goal against Portugal became the latest chapter in a remarkable comeback story.
For Wissa, the equaliser represented far more than a place on the scoresheet. It was the culmination of years of resilience, proof that a player who once feared losing his sight could still shine on football’s biggest stage.
About the Author
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for over a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket conten…Read More
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