Portugal - DR Congo / 2026 FIFA World Cup

Follow the LIVE broadcast of the Portugal vs. DR Congo match in Group K of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on ŠPORT.sk! The match, also broadcast live on JOJ Šport, kicks off at 7:00 PM CET.

The quest to surpass their historic best from 1966, when Portugal claimed bronze, begins in the opening round of Group H. Two decades have passed since that memorable semi-final in Germany, and the bitter quarter-final exit against Morocco (0-1) at the previous World Cup in Qatar. This has given the Iberian Peninsula squad ample time to mature into a true contender. Robert Martínez's men kick off their ninth World Cup appearance as one of the top favorites for gold, and they face an immediate tactical test of patience. Standing in their way is the Democratic Republic of Congo's deep defensive wall.

The African representative makes an emotional return to the sport's most prestigious stage after an incredible 52 years. Their only previous experience dates back to 1974, when the country, then known as Zaire, suffered three defeats without scoring a single goal. However, the current squad under Sébastien Desabre is vastly different – tactically sophisticated and well-organized. The "Leopards'" journey to the finals involved challenging African qualifiers and a nail-biting intercontinental playoff, where they edged out Jamaica (1-0 after extra time).

Desabre can rely on defensive stalwarts with experience from top European leagues, including Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Arthur Masuaku. Their playing style is built on immense physical strength, aggression in individual duels, and a compact defensive block. However, their transition play and creativity remain weaknesses, as evidenced by pre-tournament tests – a goalless draw with Denmark and a narrow 1-2 defeat to Chile. The offensive hopes of the fully fit squad will rest on the shoulders of Cédric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa, who will be looking to capitalize on any swift counter-attacks.

Portugal, however, boasts formidable form. They have suffered only one defeat in their last thirteen matches, recording ten wins and two draws. They emphatically concluded their qualifying campaign with a 9-1 demolition of Armenia and confirmed their winning mentality in overseas friendlies, successively defeating the USA (2-0), Chile (2-1), and Nigeria (2-1). Martínez has a luxurious midfield at his disposal, orchestrated by Vitinha, João Neves, and Bruno Fernandes, while Nuno Mendes, Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leão, and Pedro Neto will terrorize opposing defenses down the flanks.

Leading the line will be the ageless captain, Cristiano Ronaldo. The living legend is set for his record-breaking sixth World Cup, with African opponents often proving to be his favored targets. A huge positive for the European favorites is the medical team's report of no health concerns.

This will be the first-ever encounter between these two national teams. The tactical script is clearly laid out – Portugal is expected to dominate possession and lay siege to the Congolese goal. Martínez's side has managed to score at least twice in each of their last three outings. While the African underdog, thanks to their solid defense (as shown against Denmark), will likely prevent a high-scoring rout or wild corner kick statistics, a Portugal team brimming with individual talent should comfortably control the match.