DR Congo's Predicted XI for 2026 World Cup Opener Against Portugal

Anticipation is building for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and one intriguing early fixture sees DR Congo face off against European giants Portugal. While considered significant underdogs in their group stage debut, the Leopards are expected to field a side with several players familiar to football fans, according to pre-match predictions.

The defensive unit is shaping up to be robust, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe reportedly set to feature. They are likely to be joined by Chancel Mbemba and Arthur Masuaku, forming a strong backline that could potentially expand to five with the inclusion of Steve Kapuadi. This defensive setup suggests a strategy aimed at containing Portugal's formidable attack.

Further up the pitch, the midfield is expected to see Sunderland's Noah Sadiki, who reportedly enjoyed a successful 2025-26 Premier League campaign, taking a central role. Samel Moutoussamy is also in line to earn his 59th international cap, anchoring the midfield. In attack, despite a challenging club season, Yoane Wissa remains a crucial figure for his national side and is projected to start alongside Cedric Bakambu, providing the team's primary attacking threat.