As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in North America, all eyes turn to Houston where Portugal begin their Group H campaign against DR Congo. With Cristiano Ronaldo on the brink of yet more records, the narrative is firmly fixed on the 41-year-old legend. Can Roberto Martinez’s side deliver an opening statement that sets the tone for a deep tournament run? Here’s everything you need to know ahead of Wednesday’s clash at NRG Stadium.
Ronaldo's Record Pursuit
Already the men’s all-time top international goalscorer with 135 goals, Cristiano Ronaldo stands on the precipice of another landmark. Should he find the net against DR Congo, he would become the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments — a feat that may never be matched. Having netted in every edition since 2006, the Portuguese captain remains the unequivocal focal point of his nation’s attack, even as he approaches his 42nd birthday. His tally of 8 World Cup goals already makes him Portugal’s joint-second highest scorer, just one behind the legendary Eusébio (9).
"Cristiano is still our most dangerous weapon," said manager Roberto Martinez earlier this week. "His hunger for goals and history is unmatched. We’ve built the team around his strengths."
Team News and Tactics
Martinez is expected to deploy a fluid 4-3-3 system, with Bruno Fernandes orchestrating from midfield and Bernardo Silva providing creativity in wide areas. Rúben Dias anchors the backline alongside Gonçalo Inácio, while João Cancelo and Nuno Mendes offer attacking width from full-back. The midfield trio of Fernandes, Vitinha, and João Palhinha should dominate possession against a physically imposing Congolese side.
DR Congo, coached by Sébastien Desabre, are likely to sit deep in a 5-3-2 block and rely on rapid counter-attacks through Cédric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa. Leicester City’s Arthur Masuaku is a key outlet on the left flank, while Galatasaray’s Gaël Kakuta provides craft in midfield. The Leopards have no fresh injury concerns and are expected to name an unchanged XI from their final warm-up friendly.
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
These sides have met only twice in competitive fixtures, most recently a 1-1 draw in an October 2025 friendly. Portugal dominated possession but struggled to break down a resolute Congolese defence, with Ronaldo equalising from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute.
Portugal enter the tournament on a 12-match unbeaten run, including commanding victories over Brazil (3-1) and Netherlands (4-0) in pre-World Cup friendlies. The European champions have kept clean sheets in six of their last eight outings, highlighting their defensive solidity under Martinez.
DR Congo secured their World Cup berth after a tense CAF playoff win over Senegal, winning 2-1 on aggregate. They have lost just two of their previous 10 matches, though both defeats came against nations ranked inside the FIFA top 15. The Leopards will take heart from a spirited 1-0 victory over Uruguay in March.
Prediction
Portugal’s superior quality and tournament experience should prove decisive, though DR Congo’s physicality and organised low block may cause early frustration. Expect a cagey first half before the Seleção’s intricate passing combinations unlock the door. Ronaldo, inevitably, will find his moment — perhaps from a set-piece or a late penalty — to etch his name deeper into the history books. A 2-0 Portugal win feels the most likely outcome, with Martinez’s men easing to three points and an early lead in Group H.
Key Takeaways
- Cristiano Ronaldo could become the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments.
- Portugal enter as heavy favourites with a star-studded squad and stellar recent form.
- DR Congo will rely on defensive organisation, physicality, and lightning counters.
- Set-pieces may prove a crucial route to goal for both sides.
- Roberto Martinez’s side are expected to top Group H and mount a deep run.
Quick Facts
Kick-off: Wednesday 18 June 2026, 20:00 local time (Houston)
Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group H
Last Meeting: Portugal 1-1 DR Congo (October 2025, friendly)
Key Player (Portugal): Cristiano Ronaldo
Key Player (DR Congo): Cédric Bakambu
