Portugalvs
DR Congo
Group Stage · Wed, Jun 17, 2026 · 18:00 ET · Estadio Houston, Houston
Ronaldo’s heir meets Congolese steel
Portugal’s post-Ronaldo era begins here, likely with Gonçalo Ramos leading the line against DR Congo’s backline of Ligue 1 bruisers. Chancel Mbemba (Marseille) and Henoc Baka (Metz) will test Portugal’s flair with raw physicality. Roberto Martínez’s side must adapt to Houston’s 3pm furnace — their 2022 World Cup struggles against Morocco’s intensity won’t be forgotten.
The Yoane Wissa factor
Brentford’s winger is DR Congo’s most potent weapon, with 11 goals in 2025 Premier League play. His direct runs at João Cancelo could expose Portugal’s aging fullback. The Leopards lack World Cup pedigree but boast eight France-born players — including PSG’s 19-year-old midfielder Désiré Doué — blending European discipline with African athleticism.
Group K’s early statement
With Turkey and New Zealand waiting, both teams need points fast. Portugal’s 4-0 rout of DR Congo in 2017 means little — this is a hardened Congolese side that held Algeria to a 1-1 draw in 2025 AFCON qualifying. Martínez’s 3-4-3 system must unlock a defense that conceded just twice in six qualifiers.
Match details
- Competition: World Cup 2026
- Stage: Group Stage
- Venue: Estadio Houston, Houston
- Kickoff: Wed, Jun 17, 2026 · 18:00 ET
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Portugal vs DR Congo being played?+
NRG Stadium, Houston — kickoff at 3pm local time on June 17, 2026.
Has DR Congo ever beaten Portugal?+
No. Their only meeting was a 4-0 Portugal win in 2017 friendly.
Who is DR Congo’s key player?+
Yoane Wissa. The Brentford forward scored 6 goals in World Cup qualifying.
What’s Portugal’s record against African teams?+
Won 7, drawn 2, lost 3 — including 2022 World Cup defeat to Morocco.
How many World Cups has DR Congo played in?+
One — 1974 as Zaire, losing all three games including a 9-0 to Yugoslavia.