Does Nuno Mendes play today? Portugal vs DR Congo at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Portugal faces DR Congo this Wednesday (17) at the 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, enters as a strong favorite against DR Congo, 46th placed, which returns to the tournament after 52 years of absence.
With Rúben Dias injured, Nuno Mendes, from Paris Saint-Germain, should start at left back. At 24 years old, the defender stands out for his physical explosiveness, technical quality and ability to influence both defense and attack.
Nuno Mendes, the driving force behind the Portuguese left side
Trained at Sporting and consolidated at PSG, Nuno Mendes is known for his speed, precise crosses and intense duels. In his debut, his projection on the left flank will be essential to create overloads with Bernardo Silva, Pedro Neto or Rafael Leão, helping to pierce DR Congo’s compact defense. The player arrives in top shape and represents one of the main Portuguese offensive threats.
Rúben Dias out and adjustments in defense
The absence of the Manchester City defender forces the duo of Gonçalo Inácio and Tomás Araújo to take center stage. Nuno Mendes gains even more freedom to attack, but will need to balance his actions to avoid quick counterattacks from the Congolese led by Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu. João Cancelo completes the defensive line on the right.
Probable lineups for the clash
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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 decisive flanks
The odds reinforce Portugal’s superiority, but the game requires attention to the spaces left by Nuno Mendes’ rises. DR Congo bets on defensive solidity and quick transitions. The left-back’s performance can define the Portuguese offensive volume from the opening minutes.
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 with a focus on Nuno Mendes’ performance on the left.
Portugal has an obligation to debut with victory to lead Group K. Nuno Mendes’ protagonism, combined with the talent of CR7 and the midfield, can guarantee a convincing start in the search for their first world title.
