Portugal vs DR Congo Prediction, Betting Pick, Latest World Cup Odds for Wednesday, June 17th
Portugal and DR Congo kick off their FIFA World Cup campaigns in the group stage. Read our lineups, team news, and Portugal vs. DR Congo prediction and best bet for Wednesday, June 17th in World Cup Group K.
OC Staff - June 17, 2026, 9:15 AM EDT
3 Minute ReadPortugal vs DR Congo Prediction: Can Ronaldo Lead Portugal to Easy Win in Wednesday's Group K Opener?
Portugal and DR Congo kick off their FIFA World Cup campaigns in the group stage, with both nations eager to lay down an early marker. The clash takes place on Wednesday 17th June 2026 at 1 PM ET, with the European giants technically sitting third in the early standings and their African opponents in second, though all teams start on level terms before a ball is kicked in this tournament.
Portugal vs DR Congo Form
The hosts head into the tournament on the back of a 2-1 friendly victory over Nigeria. The Seleção have been in impressive form leading up to the tournament, winning four of their last six matches, including another 2-1 triumph over Chile and a comfortable 2-0 win away to the USA. Their only recent slip-up was a 2-0 defeat against Ireland in November 2025, which remains their sole loss since March 2025.
The visitors also warmed up for the tournament with a positive result, securing a 2-1 friendly win against Chile. The Leopards have enjoyed a strong run of form, winning four of their last six matches. Their only defeat in that period came after extra time against Algeria in the Africa Cup of Nations, showcasing their resilience in competitive fixtures.
Portugal vs DR Congo Head to Head
This fixture represents a historic occasion, as Portugal and DR Congo have never faced each other in their history, even in friendly matches. The lack of historical precedent adds an element of unpredictability to the clash, especially with the African nation making their first appearance at the World Cup Finals since 1974.
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Portugal vs DR Congo Odds
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Portugal vs. DR Congo Date, Time, and Where to Watch
- Date: Wednesday, June 17th, 2026
- Time: 1:00 PM ET
- Where: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
- How to Watch: FOX, Telemundo, Peacock
Portugal vs DR Congo Probable Lineups
Portugal (4-3-3): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Inácio, Mendes; Fernandes, Vitinha, Silva; Leão, Ronaldo, Neto
DR Congo (4-2-3-1): Mpasi; Masuaku, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Wan-Bissaka; Moutoussamy, Kayembe; Elia, Bongonda, Kakuta; Wissa
The tactical battle will likely be won and lost in midfield. The hosts will look to dominate possession through the creative trio of Fernandes, Vitinha, and Silva. Their ability to find pockets of space will test the defensive discipline of Moutoussamy and Kayembe. Meanwhile, the visitors will rely on the Premier League experience of their back four, particularly Mbemba and Wan-Bissaka, to neutralise the threat of Leão and Neto on the flanks.
Portugal vs DR Congo Team News
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez should have a fully fit squad to choose from for this opening fixture. All eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo, who is expected to lead the line at the age of 41 as he participates in his historic sixth World Cup.
The African side also boasts plenty of top-level experience throughout their squad. They are expected to line up with a back four who have all played in the Premier League previously, while Yoane Wissa is set to start up front to spearhead their attack.
Portugal vs DR Congo Match Facts
- Portugal topped their World Cup qualifying group after losing just once from their six games.
- That defeat against the Republic of Ireland is Portugal's only loss since March 2025.
- In competitive matches, DR Congo have lost just once since September 2025.
- In their previous tournament, DR Congo were knocked out in the round of 16 in the African Cup of Nations.
- Portugal and DR Congo have never faced each other in their history, even in friendlies.
- The last time DR Congo qualified for the World Cup Finals was back in 1974.
Prediction: Portugal 3-0 DR Congo
While the African side has proven incredibly difficult to beat in competitive matches, losing just once since September 2025, the sheer offensive quality of the European side should prove too strong. With creative sparks like Fernandes and Silva pulling the strings behind Cristiano Ronaldo, the favorites are expected to break down a stubborn defense. A comfortable 3-0 victory for the home side is the predicted outcome to start their campaign in style.
Best Bet: Portugal to Win to Nil Check out the best odds on bet365 Sportsbook
Given the defensive solidity expected from the hosts and the fact that the visitors may struggle to create high-quality chances against a backline anchored by Dias, backing the favorite to win without conceding offers strong value. The European side's control of possession should limit the opportunities for Wissa and company, making a clean-sheet victory highly probable.
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