News Focus
- Cristiano Ronaldo starts as the main striker for Portugal in the World Cup 2026 qualifier
- DR Congo deploy a defensive 5-3-2 formation with five players across the backline
- Premier League defenders Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe feature for the Leopards
- Portuguese midfield includes creative stars Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva
- Qatari referee Abdulrahman Ibrahim Al Jassim officiates the international clash
Portugal have announced their starting eleven for the World Cup 2026 qualifier against DR Congo. The European side includes several top stars from major European leagues.
Cristiano Ronaldo leads the attack. He plays as the lone striker in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Three creative players support him in advanced roles. Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Pedro Neto start just behind the veteran forward.
Vitinha and João Neves operate in central midfield. They will provide defensive cover for the backline. Diogo Costa starts between the posts. João Cancelo and Nuno Mendes occupy the full-back positions.
DR Congo have chosen a cautious approach. The African side uses a 5-3-2 system. Five defenders line up across the pitch. Aaron Wan-Bissaka starts at right wing-back. Chancel Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe play in central defence. Arthur Masuaku operates on the left flank.
Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu lead the attack for the Leopards. They hope to use pace on the counter-attack.
Abdulrahman Ibrahim Al Jassim from Qatar will referee the match. He takes charge of the fixture as both teams battle for crucial World Cup qualification points.