Last Word on Football brings you the latest team news and the confirmed lineups for Portugal vs DR Congo at the Houston Stadium, in an 18:00 GMT kick-off on June 17. Both teams will be eager to start the competition with three points, with Portugal the heavy pre-game favourites.
Portugal vs DR Congo, Team News and Confirmed Lineups
Portugal Team News
The build-up to Portugal’s first game has been overshadowed by the rumours surrounding the future of manager Roberto Martinez. When asked about his future, Martinez said:
“This is not news, we have talked about this a lot in Portugal,” Martinez said. “The most important thing is to focus on winning the World Cup.”
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It was widely reported that Martinez had no injury problems ahead of Portugal vs DR Congo, but it now appears they will be without key centre-back Ruben Dias: “Medically, we need him to be at 100% for a World Cup match and that is how we will proceed. It is about not taking risks at this stage of the tournament,” Martinez said.
Discussing the importance of Cristiano Ronaldo, Martinez said: “He is a role model, he is an iconic player in global football for athletes, male and female, who love football. It is his sixth World Cup, but it feels like his first one when it comes to the intensity with which he works.
“He is essential, he is a striker who can open up spaces for others in the team.”
DR Congo Team News
During qualification, DR Congo showed a defensive steeliness that made them difficult to break down. Many who watch English football will recognise Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, former Newcastle player Chancel Mbemba, and Yoane Wissa. Sunderland star Noah Sadiki is another player to watch for Congo. The Congolese will take huge confidence from Cabo Verde’s draw against Spain.
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Portugal Confirmed Lineup
This section will be updated once the lineup is confirmed.
DR Congo Confirmed Lineup
This section will be updated once the lineup is confirmed.
Featured Image Credit:
REUTERS/Pedro Nunes
