The goals, minute by minute
- 6'João NevesGoal · 1-0
- 45'+5'Yoane WissaGoal · 1-1
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
Portugal (6th FIFA) vs DR Congo (56th FIFA)
Level of the teams
- Portugal: 2025 Nations League champion, top squad (Vitinha, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, Ronaldo). Heavy group favorite.
- DR Congo: back at a World Cup after decades, physical and battling, but well below in pedigree.
Key factors
- Huge gap in ranking and squad quality in Portugal's favor.
- Portugal wants to start with a rout to set up the group.
- DR Congo will bet on defending and the counterattack.
Prediction
Most likely result: 2-0 Portugal (alternative: 3-0 Portugal)
- Portugal win: 75%
- Draw: 17%
- DR Congo win: 8%
Player to watch: Cristiano Ronaldo, reference and goals at his 6th World Cup.
Final verdict, Confidence: high
Portugal is far superior in every area and should win its opener comfortably. DR Congo will look to limit the damage and hold on.