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.
Gonçalo Ramos appears as an important option in the Portuguese attack for the debut. At 24 years old, the Benfica (or current club) center forward stands out for his eye for goal, strong heading and ability to finish efficiently inside the area.
Gonçalo Ramos, the opportunistic scorer of the Portuguese attack
With good positioning, physical strength and goalscoring instinct, Gonçalo Ramos can be a starter or come on as a substitute to change the outlook of the game. Against DR Congo’s compact defense, his presence as a central reference will be valuable to fix defenders, open spaces for Cristiano Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva or the wingers and convert chances into goals. The young man arrives confident after good recent performances.
Rúben Dias absence in defense requires balance
Without the Manchester City defender, the defense has Gonçalo Inácio and Tomás Araújo. Gonçalo Ramos and the offensive sector gain responsibility to press high and maintain possession, while the midfield with Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and João Neves protects the rearguard. DR Congo, with Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu, will look for counterattacks.
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 João Félix/Rafael Leão), with Gonçalo Ramos as a strong option on the bench or in the central reference. 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 options in attack
The odds indicate a comfortable victory for Portugal, but the duel demands efficiency in finishing. Gonçalo Ramos’ performance, whether from the start or later in the match, could be decisive in expanding the score and adding depth to the Portuguese attack.
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 Gonçalo Ramos’ moves carefully.
Portugal is looking for a perfect start in Group K. The protagonism of Gonçalo Ramos, alongside CR7 and the other talents in the squad, can guarantee a convincing debut with goals in the campaign in search of their first world title.