João Félix Defends Portugal After Slow Start: "It's a Dream for Them, Just Like for Us"

Portugal forward João Félix believes his teammates started strong against DR Congo but dropped their intensity after an early goal, which proved costly. The "Navigators" could only manage a 1-1 draw in their World Cup opener in the USA, Mexico, and Canada against the African side. They took the lead in the sixth minute through a João Neves header, but Yoane Wissa equalized in first-half stoppage time. Félix himself, who scored 20 goals and provided 13 assists in the Saudi Arabian league, remained on the bench for the entire match.

“I think we started the game well. In the first three minutes, DR Congo barely touched the ball. Then we scored and eased off. We started holding onto the ball for long periods, but we were doing it in midfield, which always carries a risk if you lose it there. They began pressing our midfielders and found space. Gradually, the game became more even. We got more players into the penalty area, which is important. We were close to a second goal a few times. We raised our level, but the first match is always like that. Even against weaker teams, because everyone is playing for their country. It’s a dream for them, just as it is for us. That always gives a little extra,” Félix stated after the match.