Portugal vs. DR Congo Projected Starting 11: Starting Lineups For Ronaldo’s Opening Match

Portugal and DR Congo square off Monday in an intriguing 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage matchup as one of Europe’s perennial contenders takes on an ambitious African side looking to make a statement on the world stage.

Portugal arrive with a squad packed with elite talent and tournament experience, headlined by legendary striker Cristiano Ronaldo and a midfield loaded with creativity. DR Congo, meanwhile, enter the tournament with confidence and a roster featuring a mix of Premier League experience and established international veterans capable of challenging any opponent.

With valuable points on the line early in the group stage, both nations will be eager to start their World Cup campaign with a positive result.

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Portugal Projected Starting Lineup

Portugal are expected to deploy a talented and attack-oriented lineup built around a strong midfield and experienced attacking core. Diogo Costa is projected to start in goal behind a back four consisting of João Cancelo, Tomás Araújo, Gonçalo Inácio, and Nuno Mendes.

In midfield, João Neves and Vitinha are expected to operate as the double pivot. Both players excel in possession and will be tasked with controlling the tempo while helping Portugal progress the ball through the middle of the pitch.

Further forward, Bernardo Silva and Pedro Neto are projected to provide creativity and width from the flanks, while Bruno Fernandes is expected to occupy the central attacking midfield role. Fernandes remains one of Portugal’s most influential players thanks to his vision, passing range, and ability to create chances in dangerous areas.

Leading the attack is Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite his vast experience, Ronaldo remains a dangerous goal-scoring threat and will look to capitalize on the service provided by Portugal’s talented group of playmakers.

• GK: Diogo Costa
• RB: João Cancelo
• CB: Tomás Araújo
• CB: Gonçalo Inácio
• LB: Nuno Mendes
• DM: João Neves
• DM: Vitinha
• RW: Bernardo Silva
• AM: Bruno Fernandes
• LW: Pedro Neto
• ST: Cristiano Ronaldo

DR Congo Predicted Starting 11

DR Congo are expected to line up in a system featuring defensive solidity and plenty of attacking pace in transition.

Lionel Mpasi is projected to start in goal behind a defensive unit consisting of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Steve Kapuadi, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, and Arthur Masuaku. Mbemba’s leadership and experience will be vital as DR Congo attempt to contain Portugal’s dangerous attack.

The midfield trio of Samuel Moutoussamy, Ngal’ayel Mukau, and Noah Sadiki is expected to provide energy and balance in the center of the pitch. Their ability to disrupt Portugal’s possession game and quickly transition into attack could be crucial to the Leopards’ chances.

Up front, Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa are projected to lead the attack. Wissa brings pace and directness, while Bakambu’s finishing ability and experience at the international level make him one of DR Congo’s most reliable scoring threats.

• GK: Lionel Mpasi
• RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
• CB: Steve Kapuadi
• CB: Chancel Mbemba
• CB: Axel Tuanzebe
• LB: Arthur Masuaku
• CM: Samuel Moutoussamy
• CM: Ngal’ayel Mukau
• CM: Noah Sadiki
• ST: Cedric Bakambu
• ST: Yoane Wissa

Team News & Key Absences

Portugal enter the tournament with one of the deepest and most talented squads in the competition. Ronaldo remains the headline name, but players such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, and Nuno Mendes provide quality throughout the lineup.

DR Congo will lean heavily on experienced leaders including Mbemba, Wan-Bissaka, Bakambu, and Masuaku. Wissa’s pace and ability to stretch defenses could prove particularly important against Portugal’s back line, while the midfield trio will be tasked with limiting space for Portugal’s creative playmakers.

Both teams are expected to have the majority of their key contributors available, setting the stage for a competitive encounter.

Match Outlook & Resources

Portugal enter the contest as favorites thanks to their superior depth, technical quality, and extensive tournament experience. The midfield partnership of João Neves and Vitinha should help Portugal control possession, while Fernandes and Bernardo Silva provide creativity in the final third. Ronaldo remains a constant threat inside the penalty area and will be eager to add to his international goal tally.

DR Congo, however, possess enough talent to challenge favored opponents. The defensive experience of Mbemba and Wan-Bissaka, combined with the attacking threat of Wissa and Bakambu, gives the Leopards a realistic opportunity to capitalize on counterattacking situations and create scoring chances.

With both sides aiming to secure valuable points in the group stage, expect an entertaining matchup where Portugal’s attacking quality will be tested by a disciplined and determined DR Congo squad.

AP Images/Armando Franca