Portugal kick off Group K at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a tricky test against DR Congo.
Portugal enter the tournament considered amongst outside favourites, whilst DR Congo will look for a positive run as underdogs in their first appearance in 52 years.
Team News
Nuno Mendes is Portugal’s only injury doubt due to a knock suffered during their 2-1 friendly win against Nigeria.
DR Congo have no fresh injury concerns to report with Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa expected to lead their line.
When is Kick-Off?
Portugal meet DR Congo at NRG Stadium, Houston, USA, at 12pm CDT (6pm BST) on Wednesday 17 June, live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
Stat Attack
- This is Portugal’s first-ever meeting against DR Congo in all competitions.
- DR Congo are making their first appearance at a World Cup under their current name, having previously completed at the 1974 edition under Zaire but lost all three group matches.
- Portugal have scored six goals and conceded twice in their last three matches (W3).
- DR Congo have kept three clean sheets in their last five matches (W2, D1, L2).
Prediction
Considered outside favourites for the title, Portugal have a great chance to lay down a marker in this winnable group because Roberto Martinez has a great blend of experience and youth at his disposal, and there is no reason why they can’t go far if play as well as they’re now.
DR Congo meanwhile feel like they could progress as one of the eight best third-placed teams unless they beat Colombia – with their clash on 23 June likely crucial to determining who advances as runner-up, but they do have the quality to immediately trouble Portugal defensively.
This clash therefore should be a tight game especially with heat and humidity already proving a factor in many games, but Portugal should have enough quality to get the win.
Prediction: Portugal 2-1 DR Congo
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