Portugal: Martinez builds momentum, but defensive balance still under scrutiny

Portugal head into the World Cup in solid form, unbeaten across their last four friendlies. Roberto Martínez’s team have rotated heavily during preparations, recording a 0-0 draw with Mexico, a 2-0 win over the USA, and back-to-back 2-1 victories against Chile and Nigeria. The coach has used these matches to test different combinations and tactical variations ahead of the tournament.

Despite the positive results, questions remain over defensive stability and the right flank. In midfield, Portugal look extremely strong with Vitinha, João Neves, and Bruno Fernandes controlling the tempo, while Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to spearhead the attack. However, competition for wide attacking roles is intense, with Pedro Neto, Francisco Conceição, and Rafael Leão all fighting for starting spots. Leão’s recent red card against Chile may also influence Martínez’s selection decisions.

DR Congo: Historic return and a compact, disciplined identity

DR Congo return to the World Cup after more than five decades, arriving with limited preparation due to external disruptions that forced them to train and play friendlies abroad. Under Sébastien Desabre, they held Denmark to a 0-0 draw and narrowly lost 2-1 to Chile, showing resilience and defensive organization against strong opposition.

Their biggest strength lies in structure and discipline without the ball. Over their last ten matches, DR Congo have conceded just five goals, highlighting their compact defensive approach. Going forward, they rely heavily on transition play, with Wissa, Bakambu, and Bongonda offering pace and direct threat whenever space opens up behind the opposition defense.

Probable Lineups

Portugal: Costa; Dias, Veiga, Mendes, Dalot; Vitinha, Neves, Fernandes; Neto, Conceição, Ronaldo

DR Congo: Mpasi-Nzau; Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Wan-Bissaka, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Mukau, Sadiki; Bongonda, Wissa, Bakambu

Match Facts & Head-to-Head

Portugal are unbeaten in their last four friendlies, including wins over USA, Chile, and Nigeria.

DR Congo are returning to the World Cup after 52 years and have maintained strong defensive numbers in recent matches.

Portugal have conceded in five of their last seven games, while DR Congo have scored in ten of their last twelve.

Portugal matches have frequently produced high corner counts in recent World Cup fixtures.

DR Congo have shown consistent discipline, with limited yellow cards in recent tournament games.

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