Portugal, the 5th-ranked side in the world, will take on DR Congo in an exciting Group K clash at Houston in a few hours from now.
Portugal, led by the 41-year-old legend Cristiano Ronaldo, will be itching to get on the pitch and make a statement confirming their tag as one of the favourites to win the title.
A team which boasts an exceptional pool of talent, the stakes could not be higher, and with France, Germany and holders Argentina making impressive starts, there would be pressure on the Portuguese to deliver a seamless performance.
The midfield is gold for Portugal. Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva are the best in business and will be the ones to steer the team forward.
The attack will be led by the charismatic Ronaldo in his 6th World Cup and Joao Felix, who has had an amazing year with Al-Nassr.
DR Congo are arriving at the World Cup after 52 years ( they last participated in 1974 as Zaire) and will be emotionally charged to deliver.
They may not have the flamboyance of the Portuguese, but they are a solid team who have the capability to frustrate Portugal and deny them a chance to score.
Chancel Mbemba, Congo’s captain, will be the anchor of the side, and the pacy Yoane Wissa of Brentford will be the one to give Portugal’s defence a tough time. Portugal will have to be wary of Congo’s counterattacks.
Portugal have a fair lead over Congo in terms of team depth and bench strength and should get through.
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