Image source: Alamy Stock Photo
2026 World Cup
Group K
Portugal vs DR Congo
NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
Wednesday, 17 June 2026
19:00
Portugal and DR Congo will lock horns in a 2026 World Cup Group K clash on 17 June — the first World Cup appearance for the Leopards since 1974.
Head-to-head
The two nations have never met before in any competition. This will be their first-ever encounter.
Despite the lack of history, DR Congo are determined to cause a major upset against one of the tournament favourites.
Team News
Portugal have left-back Nuno Mendes as a doubt after he picked up a muscular injury in a recent warm-up and is likely to miss the opener, but Cristiano Ronaldo has dismissed fitness concerns and is expected to start.
Meanwhile, DR Congo saw Rocky Bushiri being ruled out through injury and was replaced by Aaron Tshibola, but captain Chancel Mbemba and forward Yoane Wissa are available and key.
Key Players
Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portugal captain, boasts experience, goal-scoring instinct and leadership, making him the ultimate match-winner who can decide big games in an instant.
Yoane Wissa, on the other hand, remains DR Congo’s main attacking threat and his pace, work rate, and clinical finishing can trouble any defence when he is on song.
Quotes
“Congratulations to DR Congo, it’s a team I know well. When I was coach of Belgium, there were many players with dual nationality," Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez said.
"Notably Joris Kayembe, for example, made his debut with me and now plays for Congo. Much respect for what they have accomplished... Now is the time to prepare for the first game of the World Cup, which is always important.”
2026 World Cup - Group K Full Fixtures
19:00 — Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Portugal vs DR Congo
04:00 — Thursday, 18 June 2026
Uzbekistan vs Colombia
19:00 — Tuesday, 23 June 2026
Portugal vs Uzbekistan
04:00 — Wednesday, 24 June 2026
Colombia vs DR Congo
01:30 — Sunday, 28 June 2026
Colombia vs Portugal
01:30 — Sunday, 28 June 2026
DR Congo vs Uzbekistan
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