2026 World Cup: the keys to the Portugal-DR Congo clash seen from both camps

17.06.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

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DR Congo

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Just a few hours separate us from the highly anticipated showdown between Portugal and DR Congo, marking the opening day of Group K in the World Cup.

Tipped as one of the major favorites for the title, the Seleção das Quinas will be up against a Congolese side brimming with confidence after their exceptional run through both the African and intercontinental playoffs.

World Cup 2026: The official and complete group stage schedule

To break down this much-anticipated fixture, Foot Africa reached out to a coach from each camp: Francisco Alexandre Chaló for Portugal and Éric Tshibasu for DR Congo. Here's what they had to say about this duel.

Which aspect of your national team's play makes you most optimistic ahead of this clash?

Alexandre Chaló

The talent within this team is widely acknowledged, thanks to the immense quality of its players, many of whom compete for top European clubs. It's crucial that this individual talent is paired with a perfectly tuned tactical approach. Portugal's recent history gives it an edge, but also a huge responsibility. Mental strength could prove decisive.

Éric Tshibasu

It's the defensive aspect. Clearly, Congo has shown time and again in recent years that we truly have a solid defensive unit. We're a team that defends well and concedes very little. Against all the big teams we've faced in Africa, we've proven our solidity when it comes to defensive organization.

In your opinion, what are the main strengths of your opponent in this World Cup match?

Alexandre Chaló

DR Congo has unique characteristics, especially in terms of physical power and pace on the counterattack. What's more, their motivation and lack of excessive pressure could allow them to play with freedom, even if they prefer a deep block and quick transitions.

Éric Tshibasu

Definitely the midfield, with the two European champions, Vitinha and João Neves. We'll also have to keep an eye on Bruno Fernandes, who this year has been one of the best players in the Premier League. It's really that area that's the most feared when it comes to this Portugal team.

What will be the tactical key to gaining the upper hand and securing a positive result?

Alexandre Chaló

Quality and inspiration are essential, but they must be accompanied by hard work, because at this level, intensity is crucial. Quick execution, both with and without the ball, can disrupt the opponent's defensive organization and open up spaces in their block. These are the factors that influence the game and allow talent to shine through.

Éric Tshibasu

We absolutely need to look them in the eye, take a page from Cape Verde's book defensively, and try to play our chances like teams such as Morocco have done. Even though we're not at Morocco's level yet—they're very far ahead—we can try to do something in that area, play transitions to the fullest and really defend as a unit. We have an issue with offensive transitions and that's really where we need to improve. The coach has been working on it.

Which opposing player concerns you the most before this match?

Alexandre Chaló

The tactical plan will be Congo's main asset, but two players could really stand out: Yoane Wissa (Newcastle) and Simon Banza (Al Jazira), thanks to their speed in the final third, targeting the Portuguese team's main weakness—defending.

Éric Tshibasu

I don't think there's any one particular player. I believe all their players need to be watched. It's true that Cristiano isn't the same superstar he used to be. But as we've seen with Messi recently, he still managed a hat-trick. So today, it's all of Portugal. It's not just one player. They're one of the favorites. We'll try to take inspiration from Cape Verde and hold our own against these big sides.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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