2026 World Cup: Portugal vs. Congo—Probable Lineups

Portugal vs. Congo is a match on the first day of Group K of the 2026 World Cup: the two teams will take the field in Houston at 7 p.m. (Italian time). After Lionel Messi’s hat trick in his debut with Argentina, many are waiting to see how Cristiano Ronaldo will respond in his World Cup debut. The Portuguese, who comfortably qualified for the World Cup, have lost only one game in their last thirteen and arrive with a high-quality roster and lofty ambitions. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, which secured its World Cup berth after winning a playoff against Jamaica, hasn’t shone in recent friendlies but aims to make a strong impression in its second World Cup appearance.

Martinez is expected to start with a front three of Neto, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Guedes. In midfield are Vitinha, João Neves, and Bruno Fernandes, while the fullbacks will be Cancelo and Mendes. Leao and Conceiçao will start on the bench, as will Bernardo Silva.

Bakambu leads the Congo’s attack, with Mbuku and Newcastle star Wissa behind him. Wan-Bissaka and Masuaku are the two fullbacks, and in midfield, Sadiki partners with Moutoussamy.

Portugal vs. Congo: Probable Lineups
PORTUGAL (4-3-3): Diogo Costa, Cancelo, Araujo, Inacio, Mendes; Vitinha, J. Neves, B. Fernandes; Neto, Ronaldo, Guedes. Head Coach: Martinez.
CONGO (3-4-2-1): Mpasi, Kapuadi, Mbemba, Tuanzebe; Wan-Bissaka, Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Masuaku; Mbuku, Wissa; Bakambu. Head Coach: Desabre