FIFA World Cup 2026
Portugal vs DR Congo is a Group K match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match takes place at Houston Stadium on Wednesday 17 June and starts at 19:00 Netherlands time.
Match overview
Portugal vs DR Congo opens Group K for both teams. Portugal arrive as one of Europe’s established tournament sides, with major international experience and expectations of progressing from the group.
DR Congo return to the World Cup after a long absence. Their previous appearance came in 1974, when the country competed as Zaire, making this 2026 campaign a major return to the global stage.
Group K
Portugal enter Group K as one of the strongest names in the group, with a deep modern tournament history and a squad expected to compete for knockout-stage qualification.
DR Congo return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974. Their qualification gives the team a chance to create a very different World Cup story from the one remembered from the Zaire era.
Group K also includes Uzbekistan and Colombia. Portugal will be expected to challenge for top position, while DR Congo’s return gives the group a strong comeback storyline.
Why this match matters
Portugal will want to start Group K with control, rhythm and three points. Opening matches can set the tone for the whole group stage, especially for teams expected to progress.
DR Congo have a different opportunity: this is a return match on the world stage after more than half a century away from the tournament. A strong performance against Portugal would immediately change the tone of their campaign.
Lineups and team news
The official starting lineups for Portugal vs DR Congo will only be confirmed closer to kickoff. Any predicted lineups, injuries or tactical previews should be checked again on match day before being used.
For now, the stable information is the fixture itself: Portugal vs DR Congo, Group K, Wednesday 17 June, 19:00 Netherlands time.
World Cup background
Portugal have become a regular presence at major tournaments and will be expected to manage the group stage with authority.
DR Congo’s previous World Cup appearance came in 1974 under the name Zaire. Returning in 2026 gives the team a chance to reshape its World Cup story.
Portugal and DR Congo have never previously met at the men’s World Cup, making this Group K fixture a new tournament matchup.
What to watch
Portugal will likely aim to control possession, dictate tempo and create chances through technical quality and attacking movement.
DR Congo’s route into the match may depend on defensive organisation, physical duels, quick transitions and set-piece moments. If they keep the match close, the pressure can grow on Portugal.
Watch at Sherlock Pub
Sherlock Pub will show Portugal vs DR Congo live in The Hague. For groups, reserving ahead is recommended.