Does Tomás Araújo play today? Portugal vs DR Congo at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
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 placed, which returns to the tournament after 52 years.
With Rúben Dias injured, young defender Tomás Araújo, from Benfica, appears as a starter alongside Gonçalo Inácio. At 24 years old, the 1.87m defender gets his big opportunity at a World Cup.
Tomás Araújo, the young bet on the Portuguese defense
Formed in Benfica’s youth teams, Tomás Araújo stands out for his good ball release, safe positioning and versatility — he can also play as a right-back. His presence in defense brings freshness and technical quality to build plays from behind, a characteristic valued by Martínez. The player arrives confident after good recent performances and should command the defensive line on his debut.
Rúben Dias out and adjustment in defense
The absence of Manchester City’s starter increases Araújo’s responsibility. He will form a pair with Gonçalo Inácio, while João Cancelo and Nuno Mendes complete the flanks. DR Congo, with fast attackers like Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu, will test the solidity of this new defensive configuration.
Probable lineups for the clash
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Portugal (4-3-3): Diogo Costa; João Cancelo, Tomás Araújo, Gonçalo Inácio, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, João Neves, Bruno Fernandes; Bernardo Silva, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto (or João Félix). 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 defense in test
The odds indicate an easy victory for Portugal, but the duel demands attention from the Congolese counterattacks. Tomás Araújo’s performance in passing the ball and in aerial duels could be decisive in keeping the score zero and giving peace of mind to the attacking team led by CR7.
Where to watch live
In Brazil, transmission is carried out by CazéTV on YouTube, Prime Video and possibly SporTV or TV Globo. The game starts at 2pm (Brasília time). Keep an eye on the performance of Benfica’s young defender.
Portugal needs to start scoring to take the lead in Group K. Tomás Araújo’s debut in a World Cup represents not only an individual chance, but also an important test for Portugal’s defensive solidity in the quest for an unprecedented title.
