Portugal will kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on Wednesday when they face Congo DR in a Group K encounter in Houston, with Roberto Martinez’s side eager to begin their quest for a first-ever world title on a positive note.
Match Preview
Despite boasting some of the greatest players in football history, Portugal have never won the World Cup. Their best finish remains a third-place result in 1966, while their most recent campaign ended in a quarter-final exit in Qatar. With a squad packed with talent and experience, many believe this could be one of their strongest opportunities yet to challenge for global glory.
Portugal head into the tournament in excellent form after recording friendly victories over the United States, Chile and Nigeria. The Europeans also concluded their qualification campaign in emphatic fashion, highlighted by a stunning 9-1 victory over Armenia.
Much of the attention will once again be on Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to make his 229th appearance for Portugal. The 41-year-old captain heads into the tournament with an incredible 143 international goals and will be desperate to add the World Cup trophy to his glittering collection of honours.
The likes of Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, João Neves and Nuno Mendes provide Portugal with quality throughout the team, making them one of the strongest sides in the competition.
Congo DR, meanwhile, are preparing for their first World Cup appearance in 52 years after securing qualification through the intercontinental playoffs. Axel Tuanzebe’s extra-time winner against Jamaica booked the Leopards’ place in North America and sparked celebrations across the country.
Sebastien Desabre’s men have shown resilience in recent months, including a goalless draw against Denmark and a strong Africa Cup of Nations campaign that saw them reach the Round of 16. However, they face a daunting challenge against one of the tournament favourites.
The African side will rely on experienced players such as Chancel Mbemba, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Arthur Masuaku, Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa to help cause an upset. While Portugal represent their toughest test in Group K, Congo DR will be hoping to remain competitive and build momentum for their subsequent matches against Colombia and Uzbekistan.
Team News
Portugal have no major injury concerns heading into the game, with Martinez expected to field his strongest available side. Ronaldo is set to lead the attack, supported by Bernardo Silva and Pedro Neto, while Fernandes, Vitinha and João Neves are likely to anchor the midfield.
Congo DR are also close to full strength, with Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Mbemba and Masuaku expected to form a solid defensive unit. In attack, Bakambu and Wissa will carry the Leopards’ goalscoring hopes.
Predicted Lineups
Portugal: Diogo Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Inácio, Nuno Mendes; João Neves, Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha; Bernardo Silva, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto.
Congo DR: Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Kapuadi, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Mukau; Wissa, Bakambu.
Prediction
Congo DR have enough quality and experience to make life difficult for Portugal, but the gulf in class between the two sides is expected to show over the course of the match. With Ronaldo and Portugal’s star-studded squad determined to make a statement, the Europeans should have too much firepower.
Prediction: Portugal 3-0 Congo DR.
