Portugal will begin their quest for a first-ever FIFA World Cup title when they face DR Congo in their Group K opener on Wednesday, June 17, at Houston Stadium.
Led by veteran superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal enter the tournament as one of the favourites after a strong build-up that included friendly victories over the USA, Chile and Nigeria. Head coach Roberto Martinez boasts one of the most talented squads in the competition and will be expected to guide the Seleção das Quinas deep into the tournament.
Despite winning UEFA Euro 2016, Portugal have never lifted the World Cup, with their best finish remaining third place in 1966. Ronaldo, featuring in what could be his final World Cup, will be determined to lead his country to football’s biggest prize.
For Democratic Republic of the Congo, this tournament marks a historic return to the global stage after a 52-year absence. The Leopards secured qualification through the intercontinental playoffs and arrive with confidence after recent positive performances, including a draw against Denmark.
Head coach Sebastien Desabre knows his side face their toughest challenge of the group, but the expanded 48-team format offers hope that a strong performance could keep their knockout-stage ambitions alive.
Portugal are clear favourites, but World Cup history has shown that opening matches can often produce surprises.
Team News
Portugal have no injury concerns heading into this match, and there are unlikely to be any major surprises when it comes to their starting XI here, with 41-year-old Ronaldo set to lead the line on his 229th appearance for the national side.
Ronaldo will be aiming to add to his 143 international goals this summer and will be looking to improve on a disappointing 2022 World Cup, which saw him only register once.
The Al-Nassr striker was sent off against Republic of Ireland in a qualifier at the end of last year, but he had the second and third matches suspended for a year due to the fact that it was the veteran’s first red card in 225 international appearances.
As for Congo DR, there are plenty of recognisable names in their squad, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba and Arthur Masuaku, who are all expected to operate in what is likely to be a back five.
Sunderland’s Noah Sadiki is in line to feature in the middle of midfield, while there will be two notable players in the final third of the field in the shape of Newcastle United’s Yoane Wissa and Real Betis’ Cedric Bakambu.
Possible lineups
Portugal possible starting lineup:
D Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Inacio, Mendes; J Neves, Fernandes, Vitinha; Bernardo, Ronaldo, Neto
Congo DR possible starting lineup:
Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Kapuadi, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Mukau; Wissa, Bakambu
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV stream |
| Kick-off Time | 18:00 (WAT) |
Match predictions
Softfootball predicts Portugal 2-0 Congo DR
This is a tough opener for Congo DR, and we are expecting Portugal to be far too strong for their opponents on Wednesday.
