Portugal’s search for glory at the 2026 World Cup begins on Wednesday when they open their Group K campaign against DR Congo in Houston.
With expectations high around Roberto Martinez’s side, they will be determined to start strongly against an opponent making a long-awaited return to the global stage.
Verdict: Total Portugal goals over 2.5
Best odds: 5/4
Bookmaker: 888sport
Portugal
Portugal head into the tournament as one of the teams tipped to challenge for honours, even if they are not among the very top favourites. Despite never having lifted the World Cup, the quality within their squad has raised optimism that this could finally be their year.
Historically, their best performance came in 1966 when they finished third, while more recently they placed fourth in 2006 and reached the quarter-finals in Qatar. However, there is a sense that Portugal have underachieved relative to their talent pool, particularly in recent decades.
Momentum heading into the tournament is encouraging. Portugal arrive on the back of three consecutive friendly victories over the USA, Chile and Nigeria, and they concluded their qualification campaign in emphatic fashion with a 9–1 win over Armenia. That said, a defeat to the Republic of Ireland late last year highlighted that vulnerabilities remain.
Roberto Martinez’s team are widely expected to top a group that also includes Colombia and Uzbekistan, and anything other than progression would be considered a major disappointment. This opening fixture therefore represents an opportunity to set the tone early.
Team News
In terms of squad availability, Portugal have no injury concerns, allowing Martinez to select from a full-strength squad. Cristiano Ronaldo is set to lead the line on what will be his 229th international appearance, with the veteran forward aiming to add to his remarkable tally of 143 goals. After a relatively quiet 2022 campaign, he will be motivated to make a greater impact this time around.
Supporting him is a strong core of players in peak form. Nuno Mendes, João Neves and Vitinha are expected to start after their Champions League success with Paris Saint‑Germain, while Bruno Fernandes is also poised to feature following an outstanding club season. With such depth and quality, Portugal’s attacking potential remains one of their key strengths.
DR Congo
DR Congo approach this match as underdogs but with confidence stemming from their recent progress. The Leopards secured qualification for their first World Cup in 52 years with a hard-fought victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff, marking a historic achievement for the nation.
Their recent form has been mixed but competitive. A goalless draw against Denmark demonstrated their defensive organisation, although a 2–1 defeat to Chile last time out showed that they can struggle against higher-quality opposition.
The expanded format of the tournament provides DR Congo with realistic hope of advancing, especially if they can pick up points in matches against Uzbekistan or create a surprise result elsewhere. However, facing Portugal in their opener represents their toughest challenge in the group.
Team News
Squad-wise, the Leopards have a familiar and experienced core. There are no reported injury concerns, meaning head coach Sébastien Desabre can rely on a full squad. Defensively, players such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba and Arthur Masuaku are expected to form part of a back five designed to absorb pressure.
In midfield, Noah Sadiki is likely to feature, while the attack will be led by Yoane Wissa and Cedric Bakambu. The latter is the squad’s leading scorer with 21 international goals, while Wissa adds pace and directness, despite a difficult club season. Together, they represent DR Congo’s best route to troubling Portugal’s defence.
Key Factors to Consider
- Portugal enter the match in strong form, having won three straight friendlies ahead of the tournament.
- DR Congo are making their first World Cup appearance in over 50 years, which could affect composure early on.
- Portugal have a fully fit squad, allowing them to field their strongest possible XI.
- DR Congo’s defensive approach, likely using a back five, could make them difficult to break down initially.
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s experience and goal-scoring record remain a decisive factor in big matches.
- The quality gap between the squads is significant, particularly in midfield and attacking areas.
Conclusion
This represents a challenging opener for DR Congo, who face one of the strongest squads in the competition. While they have the defensive structure and individual quality to remain competitive for periods, sustaining that level across the entire match will be difficult.
Portugal, meanwhile, possess superior depth, experience and attacking firepower. With key players in form and no injury distractions, they are well placed to take control of the contest from the outset.
Anything other than a convincing Portugal win would rank among the major surprises of the tournament, and Seleção das Quinas are expected to begin their campaign with a statement victory.
Verdict: Total Portugal goals over 2.5
Best odds: 5/4
Bookmaker: 888sport
