The 2026 World Cup will see Portugal begin its campaign on June 17 at 1 p.m. Eastern Time, taking on the Democratic Republic of the Congo in a Group B encounter that promises early drama.
Bookmakers have installed Portugal as clear favorites, citing a squad that finished fourth in the 2022 tournament in France and shares the fourth‑best odds at +750 with England.
Ronaldo’s Milestone
Cristiano Ronaldo, who is expected to feature in the lineup, will mark his sixth World Cup appearance, a milestone that many view as potentially his last on the world stage.
The Portuguese star’s presence adds a layer of narrative intrigue, as his performance could define the opening chapter of what may be his final tournament.
DRC’s Unexpected Ascent
The Congolese side arrives in the tournament after a dramatic penalty shoot‑out victory over Nigeria in the CAF World Cup playoff final, securing their second ever World Cup berth.
Their previous appearance dates back to 1974, making this campaign a historic opportunity for a nation eager to prove its progress on the global stage.
Fans in the United States can follow the action live on FOX, with streaming options available through FuboTV, DirecTV and SlingTV, each offering competitive packages for sports enthusiasts.
With the match poised to set the tone for both teams, analysts anticipate a contest that could reshape expectations for the group and influence the broader tournament narrative.