Portugal’s latest quest for a first-ever World Cup title begins with a Group K showdown against DR Congo at the Houston Stadium on June 17.
Whilst they are not outright favourites, Portugal, led by Roberto Martinez, are still one of the teams that can realistically win the 2026 World Cup. They have never won the World Cup, but Roberto Martinez possesses a squad capable enough to go all the way this time around. This is a trophy that a certain Cristiano Ronaldo craves in what could be his last dance in the showpiece event.
Selecao das Quinas are the strong favourites to win Group K, which also includes Colombia and Uzbekistan, and they have entered the World Cup off the back of three straight friendly wins over the USA, Chile and Nigeria. They start their journey against DR Congo, who are featuring in the competition for the first time since 1974.
Portugal Team News
Portugal have no injury concerns heading into their World Cup opener, allowing Roberto Martinez to pick his strongest XI in midweek.
Predicted Portugal lineup vs. DR Congo (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper
Diogo Costa is Portugal’s undisputed No.1 and should start against DR Congo, aiming to start the World Cup campaign with a clean sheet in Houston.
Defence
Martinez is expected to opt for a flat back four in midweek. In front of Costa, Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Goncalo Inacio and Nuno Mendes could start.
Dias will partner Inacio in central defence, trying to neutralise Congo striker Yoane Wissa. They have to keep things tight at the back and look to be effective in set-pieces at the other end of the pitch. Attack-minded full-backs, Cancelo and Mendes, will ask numerous questions of the Congo backline with their pace, movement and incisive passing in the final third. When required, the duo have to defend very well, especially during transitions.
Midfield
Portugal have one of the best midfield trios in the competition. Champions League-winning midfield duo Joao Neves and Vitinha are certain starters, and they will look to take control of the game as early as possible.
Neves and Vitinha’s presence will allow Bruno Fernandes the licence to express himself. The Manchester United captain is coming off the back of an outstanding campaign, where he broke the record for assists in a Premier League season, notching 21. He should be key in unlocking the rigid Congo defence.
Attack
The Iberians’ attack will be spearheaded by 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who is competing in his sixth World Cup finals. Widely recognised as one of the greatest football players of his generation, Ronaldo has to click to help his nation to glory.
The veteran striker will be flanked by Bernardo Silva and Pedro Neto. Silva will provide composure, class and technical quality off the right flank, while Neto’s pace and directness could cause problems for the Congolese defence.
Joao Felix, Francisco Conceicao, Rafael Leao and Goncalo Ramos could be game-changers off the bench.
