Pre-matchWednesday, June 17

Portugal Face Congo Baptism as Group K Opens

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Portugal kick off their World Cup campaign against DR Congo in a Group K opener where Cristiano Ronaldo's side are overwhelming favourites, though the Leopards have youth and pace to trouble an ageing defence.

The bookies make Portugal heavy favourites at around 1.22 (bet365), and 70 of 74 of you agreed—nobody in the pool backed a Congo upset.

What's at Stake

All four teams in Group K start level on zero points, with Portugal expected to battle Colombia for top spot. A strong opening win is crucial for Portugal to control their destiny in what could be Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup—at 41, the Al-Nassr forward needs momentum early. DR Congo, making their first World Cup appearance since 1974, are simply looking to avoid embarrassment and perhaps spring a shock.

Team News & Tactical Battle

Portugal are expected to field a strong XI with Ronaldo leading the line, supported by Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão. The key matchup will be Portugal's ageing centre-back pairing—Pepe (43) and Rúben Dias—against Congo's explosive young forwards. Cédric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa offer genuine pace on the counter, and if Congo can survive Portugal's early pressure, they have the athleticism to hurt a slow backline in transition. Roberto Martínez will demand control through João Palhinha in midfield.

The Odds

Bet365 prices Portugal at 1.22 to win outright, with the draw at 6.50 and a DR Congo victory at 13.00. Those lines reflect the massive gulf in class—Portugal are ranked 6th by FIFA, Congo 46th—but also acknowledge that tournament openers can be nervy. FiveThirtyEight's model gives Portugal an 80% chance of victory. The pool is even more bullish: 70 of 74 picked a Portugal win, with 25 plumping for a comfortable 3–0 scoreline.

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