Portugal begin FIFA 2026 World Cup campaign with DR Congo clash.

Portugal vs DR Congo kicks off at 18:00 [GMT+1] on Thursday, June 18, at the NRG Stadium.

Portugal will begin their FIFA World Cup campaign with a Group K encounter against DR Congo, a fixture that presents an interesting contrast between Portugal's attacking talent and DR Congo's defensive resilience. While Portugal arrive as favourites, the African side have developed into a difficult team to break down and will believe they can frustrate one of the tournament's strongest squads. Roberto Martínez has assembled a Portugal team packed with technical quality, creativity and experience. Their recent record reflects those strengths. Across their last 30 matches in all competitions, Portugal have won 70% of their games, averaging 2.57 goals scored while conceding just 0.77 per match. Portugal have also demonstrated impressive consistency. They have avoided defeat in 13 of their last 15 matches, while 40% of their last 40 victories have come by margins of two goals or more. Those figures highlight a side capable of controlling matches and converting superiority into comfortable wins. Despite their overall strength, Portugal's recent World Cup record offers a note of caution. They have won four of their last eight World Cup matches, averaging 1.88 goals scored and 1.13 conceded. Three defeats in their last six World Cup fixtures suggest there is still room for improvement when it comes to managing key moments on the biggest stage. A 4—3—3 formation with 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo teaming up with Rafael Leão and Pedro Neto in attack is expected against the visitors.

DR Congo arrives with far less global attention but possesses a record that deserves considerable respect. Under Sébastien Desabre, the Leopards have built their success around organisation, discipline and defensive structure. Across their last 40 matches in all competitions, they have won 50% of their games while conceding only 0.63 goals per match. Their ability to remain competitive is perhaps even more impressive. DR Congo have avoided defeat in 32 of their last 40 matches and are unbeaten in their previous eight outings. Recent performances have been particularly solid defensively, with the team conceding just 0.33 goals per game across their last six matches. Those numbers indicate a side comfortable defending in compact shapes and limiting high-quality chances. Ultimately, Portugal's superior individual quality, attacking depth and ability to control possession should give them the edge. However, DR Congo will look to do everything possible to pick up at least a point here. A 4—2—3—1 formation with Yoane Wissa in attack is expected against Portugal.