The 2026 World Cup is officially under way. Portugal and DR Congo kicked off their campaigns on June 18, giving football its first real look at how these two sides perform on the biggest stage. For England fans, this is required viewing — Tuchel’s Three Lions could very well cross paths with Ronaldo’s Portugal in the knockout rounds. Player ratings are live, and the tactical picture is already taking shape.
Portugal vs DR Congo : how the World Cup 2026 opener unfolded
Cristiano Ronaldo, 41 years old and defying every expectation, led Portugal out for what is almost certainly his final World Cup. Roberto Martínez’s side featured a strong spine : Diogo Costa in goal, the commanding centre-back pairing of Renato Veiga and Tomás Araújo, Nuno Mendes bombing forward from left-back, and the creative engine of Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha controlling midfield.
DR Congo were far from overawed. The Leopards — one of the more intriguing sides at this tournament — arrived with a physically imposing, well-drilled unit built on collective discipline rather than individual brilliance. Their pressing game and sharp transitions tested Portugal’s defensive structure on multiple occasions, proving this group stage is no walk in the park.
For England supporters watching closely, this was the moment to start taking notes. A Portugal vs England clash in the quarter-finals or semi-finals is a real possibility, and understanding Martínez’s system now could prove invaluable in the weeks ahead.
Player ratings : who impressed and who struggled for Portugal and DR Congo ?
Diogo Costa was composed throughout, reading the game well and distributing with confidence — exactly what a World Cup goalkeeper needs to do in an opener. Nuno Mendes was arguably Portugal’s most dynamic player, offering constant width and real quality from left-back. Renato Veiga brought calmness and precision to the heart of defence, showing why Europe’s biggest clubs have been monitoring him closely. Ronaldo, still commanding respect and space at 41, remained Portugal’s focal point and emotional heartbeat.
DR Congo’s collective performance deserves genuine credit. Their organised defensive shape frustrated Portugal in the opening exchanges, and their counter-attacking threat via quick transitions was a constant reminder that African football at this World Cup cannot be dismissed. No individual dazzled, but the team unit was evident, disciplined and dangerous on the break.
Full player ratings — where fans score every player out of 10 — will be available on BBC Sport 30 minutes after the final whistle. It is one of the most engaging fan participation tools of the tournament and gives a real-time pulse on public opinion.
What Tuchel’s England must take from Portugal’s World Cup opener
Three tactical notes for Thomas Tuchel and his coaching staff. First, the space behind Nuno Mendes when he pushes high is genuinely exploitable — Phil Foden or Anthony Gordon running in behind him on the counter would be lethal. Second, isolating Bruno Fernandes from the game is the key to neutralising Portugal’s creativity : press him aggressively and the supply line to Ronaldo dries up entirely. Third, Renato Veiga’s comfort on the ball means Portugal will look to play out from the back — England’s high press, properly executed, could generate turnovers in dangerous areas.
England, sitting in Group L with their own objectives, can look at this game with quiet confidence. Bellingham, Kane, and Saka against this Portugal defence is a mouthwatering prospect. Jude Bellingham’s movement between the lines is precisely the kind of problem Veiga and Araújo have not yet had to solve in this tournament.
It is still early days. But the 2026 World Cup has the feel of a tournament where the final was written in the group stage for those paying close enough attention. England’s fans dare to dream — and this Portugal vs DR Congo opener just gave them more reason to believe.
FAQ
What was the result of Portugal vs DR Congo at the 2026 World Cup ?
The Portugal vs DR Congo match was in progress at the time of publication. The final score and complete player ratings will be available on BBC Sport 30 minutes after the final whistle — head there to see how fans worldwide rated every player.
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026 in the UK ?
The 2026 World Cup is broadcast in the UK on BBC and ITV, with free streaming available via BBC iPlayer and ITVX. All England games and the majority of the tournament are available without a subscription.
Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing against DR Congo ?
Yes, Cristiano Ronaldo starts for Portugal in their World Cup 2026 opener. At 41, CR7 is likely playing his final World Cup and has shown no intention of going quietly — he remains Portugal’s captain, leader, and focal point in attack.
Could England face Portugal at the 2026 World Cup ?
Yes, a potential England vs Portugal clash in the quarter-finals or semi-finals of World Cup 2026 is a realistic scenario given both nations’ group positions. It would be one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament — Bellingham and Kane against Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes on the world’s biggest stage.
How strong is DR Congo at the 2026 World Cup ?
DR Congo are one of the more underrated teams at World Cup 2026. With a well-organised defensive structure, physical intensity across the pitch, and several players based at European clubs, the Leopards are capable of causing upsets. They are not a team any side — England included — should take lightly.
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