FIFA World Cup 2026, Portugal vs DR Congo: Predicted Lineups, Team News, Prediction And More

Last Updated:June 17, 2026, 13:26 IST

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against DR Congo, with Roberto Martinez’s side targeting a strong start in Group K.

Portugal begin another quest to finally win a maiden FIFA World Cup when they take on DR Congo in their Group K opener on Wednesday.

For Portugal, the tournament carries extra significance. At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo is widely expected to be playing in his final World Cup, making this one last opportunity to complete the only major trophy missing from his glittering career.

While Ronaldo remains the face of the national team, Roberto Martinez now has a squad built around the creativity and energy of players such as Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and João Neves. Managing Ronaldo’s workload across the tournament could prove crucial if Portugal are to make a deep run.

Portugal Looking To Avoid Early Slip-Up

Portugal enter the competition as clear favourites to advance from Group K, which also features Colombia and Uzbekistan. However, Martinez will know that dropping points in the opening fixture could complicate matters later in the group stage.

With experienced leaders spread throughout the squad and one of Europe’s strongest midfields, Portugal will be expected to control possession and dictate the tempo from the outset.

DR Congo Chasing History

DR Congo arrive at the World Cup determined to make their mark.

The Leopards are appearing in only their second World Cup, more than five decades after their first participation when the nation competed as Zaire in 1974.

Several familiar names feature in their squad. Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe was the hero during qualification, while Premier League stars Yoane Wissa and Aaron Wan-Bissaka provide quality at both ends of the pitch.

The Congolese side may be underdogs, but they possess enough pace and athleticism to trouble Portugal if given space.

Predicted Lineups

Portugal (4-2-3-1):

Diogo Costa; João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Gonçalo Inácio, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, João Neves; Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Neto; Cristiano Ronaldo.

DR Congo:

Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Kapuadi, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Mukau; Wissa, Bakambu.

Prediction

Portugal’s superior quality should ultimately shine through, particularly with Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva pulling the strings behind Ronaldo.

DR Congo have enough attacking threat to grab a goal, but Portugal look well-equipped to start their campaign with three points.

Prediction: Portugal 3-1 DR Congo.

About the Author

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His...Read More

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