DR Congo forward scores nation's first World Cup goal five years after acid attack nearly blinded him

Historic goal for DR Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo returned to the World Cup after a 52-year absence and earned their first point in a 1-1 draw with Portugal in Houston. Yoane Wissa's second-half header cancelled out Joao Neves's early opener, making Wissa the first Congolese player ever to score at the tournament.

Acid attack survivor

Wissa's journey to this moment is remarkable. On 1 July 2021, a woman entered his home, attempted to kidnap his daughter, and threw acid in his face. He suffered chemical burns that required emergency eye surgery and left him temporarily blind.

When she throws the liquid, I feel like it burns, but with the adrenaline, I feel nothing. Then it burned and I couldn't breathe.

The attacker, Laëtitia Penvern, was convicted in January 2025 and sentenced to 18 years in prison.

Road to recovery

The attack delayed his transfer to the Premier League, but Wissa eventually joined Newcastle United. His former Lorient manager Christophe Pelissier recalled visiting him in hospital and seeing his determination. Teammate Pierre-Yves Hamel said Wissa never complained.

Even though he was physically and mentally affected, Yoane quickly showed his determination to succeed.

Match reaction

After the Houston stalemate, Wissa expressed pride.

We showed courage and tenacity. Having scored our first goal is a huge source of pride, because it reflects the character of this team.

The result sparked celebrations in the capital Kinshasa, where fans poured into the streets.