Portugal begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on Wednesday when they face DR Congo at Houston Stadium. All eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to make history by appearing in his sixth World Cup, extending a record that further cements his place among soccer’s all-time greats. Follow Portugal vs. DR Congo in our live blog for minute-by-minute coverage and updates!
The Portuguese arrive in the United States as one of the strongest contenders in the tournament after winning the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League. Managed by Roberto Martínez, Portugal boast a star-studded squad featuring Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, and João Neves, combining experience with elite talent across every area of the field. A win, tie or loss could have different implications for Portugal and DR Congo.
Meanwhile, DR Congo return to the World Cup for the first time in 52 years after securing qualification through the intercontinental playoffs. The African side enters the tournament full of confidence following a historic qualifying campaign and will look to challenge one of the favorites in Group K during their long-awaited return to soccer’s biggest stage.
Portugal vs DR Congo: Confirmed lineups
Portugal’s confirmed starting XI: Diogo Costa; João Cancelo, Tomas Araujo, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; João Neves, Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha; Bernardo Silva, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match. Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
DR Congo’s confirmed starting XI: Lionel Mpasi; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Steve Kapuadi, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba, Arthur Masuaku; Samuel Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe, Ngal’ayel Mukau; Yoane Wissa, Cédric Bakambu.
Who is the referee for Portugal vs DR Congo?
FIFA has appointed Abdulrahman Al-Jassim of Qatar as the referee for the Group K opener between Portugal and DR Congo in Houston.
The complete officiating crew includes:
- Referee: Abdulrahman Al-Jassim (Qatar)
- Assistant Referee 1: Taleb Al-Marri (Qatar)
- Assistant Referee 2: Saoud Al-Maqaleh (Qatar)
- Fourth Official: Abongile Tom (South Africa)
- VAR: Khamis Al-Marri (Qatar)
Which uniforms will Portugal and DR Congo wear?
Portugal will wear their traditional home kit featuring a red jersey with green details, red shorts, and red socks. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa is expected to wear a gold goalkeeper uniform.
DR Congo, which will be shown with the abbreviation ‘COD’ on the broadcast scoreboard, will take the field in a light blue jersey, blue shorts, and blue socks. Their goalkeeper will wear a light gray kit.
