Portugal faces DR Congo this Wednesday (17) at NRG Stadium, in Houston (USA), in the first round of Group K of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Roberto Martínez’s team, fifth in the FIFA rankings, is a big favorite against DR Congo, 46th place, which returns to the tournament after 52 years of absence.
Bernardo Silva emerges as one of the highlights in the Portuguese offensive sector for his debut. At 31 years old, the Manchester City player combines refined technique, tactical intelligence and versatility, acting as a key player in connecting the midfield to the attack.
Bernardo Silva, the creative brain of the Portuguese attack
With short dribbles, precise passes and great clearing ability, Bernardo Silva acts as the perfect link between Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and the attackers. In the match against the compact Congolese defense, his ability to create spaces, find Cristiano Ronaldo in depth or infiltrate the area will be essential to unlock the game and generate clear scoring opportunities. The player arrives in top form and represents one of Portugal’s main offensive threats.
Rúben Dias absence in defense requires balance
Without the Manchester City defender, the defense has Gonçalo Inácio and Tomás Araújo. Bernardo Silva gains even more freedom to float and support the attack, but the team will need to balance to avoid fast counterattacks from DR Congo led by Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu. João Cancelo and Nuno Mendes complete the sides.
Probable lineups for the clash
Portugal (4-3-3): Diogo Costa; João Cancelo, Gonçalo Inácio, Tomás Araújo, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, João Neves, Bruno Fernandes; Bernardo Silva, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto (or Rafael Leão). DR Congo (5-3-2): Lionel Mpasi; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba, Arthur Masuaku; Noah Sadiki, Samuel Moutoussamy; Yoane Wissa, Cédric Bakambu.
Portuguese favoritism with luxury creation
The odds indicate a comfortable victory for Portugal, but the duel requires intelligence in the final third. Bernardo Silva’s performance in creation and infiltrations will be decisive in transforming technical superiority into goals from the beginning of the campaign.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, the broadcast will be on CazéTV on YouTube, Prime Video and possibly SporTV or TV Globo. Kick-off is scheduled for 2pm (Brasília time). Follow Bernardo Silva’s magical moves carefully.
Portugal is looking for a perfect start in Group K. Bernardo Silva’s leading role, alongside CR7, Bruno Fernandes and the young talents, can guarantee a convincing debut in the search for their first world title.