Portugal start their World Cup 2026 campaign against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday, and manager Roberto Martinez has several decisions to make regarding his starting XI. The Spaniard will aim to set a strong precedent for the tournament and secure a statement victory that resonates across the 48-team field.
Cristiano Ronaldo Leads the Line
The goalscoring burden will rest on captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who at 41 years old remains the focal point of the attack. He will start up front as Portugal seek an emphatic opening win.
Midfield Engine Room
The midfield trio almost picks itself, with two-thirds coming from Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League-winning trio. The other is Premier League Player of the Season Bruno Fernandes, who has excelled for Manchester United this term, particularly since moving back into his preferred number 10 role under Michael Carrick. Fernandes broke the Premier League record for assists in a single season and will reunite with former United teammate Ronaldo on the global stage.
Wide Options
Out wide, Martinez has a plethora of choices. He is likely to select AC Milan's Rafael Leao on the left, who is pushing for a summer exit from Italy, and Bernardo Silva on the right, the Manchester City captain set to join Real Madrid.
Defensive Questions
The back four has one major question mark: who partners Ruben Dias in central defence? Sporting CP's Goncalo Inacio appears the preferred option, but former Chelsea defender Renato Veiga offers a left-footed alternative, while Benfica's Antonio Silva is also highly capable. At full-back, Joao Cancelo on the right and Nuno Mendes on the left are automatic choices.
Predicted Portugal XI (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Costa
- Defenders: Cancelo, Dias, Inacio, Mendes
- Midfielders: Vitinha, Neves
- Attacking Midfielders: Silva, Fernandes, Leao
- Forward: Ronaldo
Match Details
- Time and date: 6pm BST on Wednesday, June 17, 2026
- Venue: Houston Stadium, Texas
- How to watch: BBC
