DR Congo predicted lineup vs Portugal for FIFA World Cup 2026
DR Congo return to the World Cup after 52 years.
The DR Congo national football team will be approaching their 2026 FIFA World Cup opening fixture against Portugal with huge emotions. It marks their historic return to the grand stage. The side will face one of the tournament favourites in a highly anticipated clash at the Houston Stadium in Houston, Texas.
DR Congo are arriving with huge expectations guided by their elite squad and recent performances. Their last World Cup appearance came in 1974. The newest edition is all set to conclude a 52-year absence, with the Leopards ending the fourth-longest qualification drought in football history.
They will be up for a huge challenge in their opening fixture, squaring off against Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal, with all squad members in exceptional form. This will also be the first-ever meeting between both sides, adding to the overall stakes of the matchup.
Sébastien Desabre’s men secured a dramatic qualification to the 2026 World Cup, undergoing the longest pathway by any team to book their final spot.
They defeated rivals Nigeria in a penalty shootout to win the CAF playoffs. They then faced Jamaica in the Intercontinental Playoff final and secured victory thanks to a winning goal in the 100th minute. The result earned them a place in the tournament, making them the 48th team to qualify.
DR Congo’s recent form, however, is not exciting, especially in their pre-World Cup friendlies. They began their preparation campaign with a 0-0 draw against Denmark, followed up by a 2-1 defeat against Chile to conclude the friendlies.
The most crucial player for DR Congo at the tournament will be forward Yoane Wissa. While his domestic season was riddled with injuries and poor performance, Wissa has established himself as the star man for the nation. He managed to score four goals in the World Cup qualifiers.
Also read: Portugal predicted lineup vs DR Congo for FIFA World Cup 2026
Who all will be expected to be in the starting lineup?
Sébastien Desabre is expected to line up the squad in a 4-5-1 formation, focusing on defending deep in a compact shape to attack on counterattacks. The most vital components of the structure are undoubtedly the wingbacks. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Arthur Masuaku will have a massive task upon themselves.
Captain Chancel Mbemba will be part of central defence alongside Axel Tuanzebe. The central midfield will be controlled by Samuel Moutoussamy, Ngal’ayel Mukau, and Noah Sadiki. They will aim to shut down central spaces, forcing Portugal to attack wider.
In the attack, Yoane Wissa will assume the creative role, using his raw pace and unpredictable dribbling to carry the ball forward in attack. His teammates will need to provide him with chances. He can also use his clinicality to his maximum advantage.
DR Congo predicted lineup vs. Portugal
Predicted lineup vs. Portugal (4-5-1): Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku; Bongonda, Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Mukau, Mbuku; Wissa.
Where to watch Portugal vs DR Congo live in India?
It will be streamed live on Zee5 in India.
Where will Portugal vs DR Congo be played?
The game will be played at the Houston Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Who won the last head-to-head encounter between Portugal and DR Congo?
This will be the first encounter between these two nations.
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Basil Elias Benoy is a sports journalist with a deep passion for football, cricket, and kabaddi. A devoted supporter of Manchester United and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he combines his academic background in Economics with hands-on experience in sports media. His work ranges from professional sports content creation for digital platforms to on-ground reporting for Indian Super League club Kerala Blasters.