Portugal
Congo DR
Portugal vs Congo DR Predictions, Picks & Odds – 17/06/2026
World Cup · 1Best odds to bet on Portugal vs Congo DR
| Bookmaker | 1 | X | 2 | Bonus info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Betfred | 1.29 | 5.00 | 11.00 | View odds |
William Hill | 1.30 | 5.00 | 9.50 | View Odds |
| Smarkets | 1.31 | 6.00 | 12.50 | View Odds |
Matchbook | 1.31 | 6.00 | 12.50 | View Odds |
| Coral | 1.70 | 2.62 | 7.00 | View Odds |
| Ladbrokes | 1.70 | 2.62 | 7.00 | View Odds |
Virgin Bet | 1.27 | 5.40 | 10.50 | View Odds |
LiveScore Bet | 1.27 | 5.40 | 10.50 | View Odds |
Grosvenor | 1.27 | 5.40 | 10.50 | View Odds |
| BetVictor | 1.25 | 5.50 | 11.50 | View odds |
| betmgm.se | 1.28 | 5.60 | 11.00 | View odds |
Portugal vs Congo DR Preview
Portugal arrive in Houston in formidable shape, unbeaten across their last four outings with three wins and a draw. Roberto Martínez's side sit top of their qualifying group and boast a squad brimming with quality. Cristiano Ronaldo will captain the team in a record sixth World Cup appearance, while Bruno Fernandes and the returning Rafael Leão offer creative firepower. The squad is largely fit, and confidence is high as they chase a maiden World Cup crown.
DR Congo make a historic return to the World Cup stage after a remarkable 52-year absence, last competing as Zaire in 1974. Sébastien Desabre's side have shown steady form recently, picking up a win and a draw from their two latest fixtures. Defensive discipline has been the hallmark of this collective unit, marshalled at the back by Chancel Mbemba. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Yoane Wissa add familiar Premier League quality, though the step up in opposition here is considerable.
Portugal's home win at 1.29 represents the standout selection here. A side ranked fifth in the world, boasting the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão in creative roles behind Cristiano Ronaldo, should have far too much quality for a Congo DR outfit returning to the global stage after 52 years away. Three victories in their last four matches underline Portugal's ruthless form heading into this tournament opener.
Sébastien Desabre's men will lean on defensive discipline, with Chancel Mbemba marshalling the backline, but containing Portugal's wealth of attacking talent for ninety minutes is a tall order. The over 2.5 goals market at 1.67 appeals given Portugal's firepower and Congo DR's relative lack of experience at this level. Expect the Portuguese to create chances in volume.
Both teams to score at 2.38 is worth considering too. Congo DR possess genuine threats in Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu, players capable of punishing any defensive lapse. Portugal's tendency to commit bodies forward could leave gaps on the counter. A comfortable Portuguese victory with Congo DR grabbing a consolation feels a realistic outcome in this first-ever meeting between the sides. Odds and markets subject to change.
Trends to Know about Portugal vs Congo DR
- Portugal unbeaten in last four matches
- Congo DR returning after 52-year absence
- First ever meeting between these sides
Form & Statistics: Portugal vs Congo DR
Portugal
Recent form
Season statistics (4)
Congo DR
Recent form
Season statistics (2)
Lineups: Portugal vs Congo DR
Portugal
Starters
- 1 Diogo Costa
- 2 João Cancelo
- 3 Rúben Dias
- 4 Gonçalo Inácio
- 5 Nuno Mendes
- 6 Vitinha
- 7 João Neves
- 8 Bruno Fernandes
- 9 Bernardo Silva
- 10 Cristiano Ronaldo
- 11 Rafael Leão
Bench
- José Sá
- Rui Silva
- Tomás Araújo
- Renato Veiga
- Diogo Dalot
- Matheus Nunes
- Samú Costa
- Rúben Neves
- Francisco Trincão
- Pedro Neto
- Francisco Conceição
- Goncalo Guedes
- João Félix
- Gonçalo Ramos
Absent
- Nélson Semedo (Suspension (yellow cards))
- Diogo Jota (Deceased (squad tribute))
Congo DR
Starters
- 1 Lionel Mpasi
- 2 Aaron Wan-Bissaka
- 3 Chancel Mbemba
- 4 Steve Kapuadi
- 5 Axel Tuanzebe
- 6 Arthur Masuaku
- 7 Samuel Moutoussamy
- 8 Ngal'ayel Mukau
- 9 Noah Sadiki
- 10 Yoane Wissa
- 11 Cédric Bakambu
Bench
- Timothy Fayulu
- Mike Epolo
- Gedeon Kalulu
- Joris Kayembe
- Rocky Bushiri
- Dylan Batubinsika
- Edo Kayembe
- Charles Pickel
- Nathanaël Mbuku
- Meschak Elia
- Fiston Mayele
- Gaël Kakuta
- Théo Bongonda
- Simon Banza
Medium confidence
Portugal's probable 4-3-3 lines up against Congo DR's compact 5-3-2, a shape designed to frustrate and absorb pressure before striking on the counter. Bruno Fernandes will be central to unlocking that defensive block, with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the line on the grandest stage once more.
Congo DR's wing-backs will be crucial to whether their system holds its shape under sustained Portuguese possession. The Leopards carry genuine threat on the break through Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu, making this opener a more nuanced tactical contest than the surface billing might suggest.
How to Watch Portugal vs Congo DR Match?
What time is Portugal vs Congo DR?
Portugal vs Congo DR kicks off at 18:00 BST on Wednesday 17th June 2026 in Houston.
Where is Portugal vs Congo DR being played?
This World Cup group stage fixture takes place at Houston Stadium in Houston, Texas.
How Can I Watch Portugal vs Congo DR on TV and Live Stream?
Check local listings for live television and streaming coverage of Portugal vs Congo DR.