DR Congo back after 52 years — Ronaldo unbothered
A nation returns to the World Cup after half a century; Portugal arrive as the heavy favourites.
Fifty-two years. That is how long DR Congo have waited to find their way back to the World Cup, their solitary previous showing coming at the 1974 finals in West Germany — back when the nation played under the name Zaire. For the supporters, this return is the culmination of a long transitional spell, one that knits experienced heads together with a dynamic younger generation.
Desabre's blueprint is no secret. He wants defensive compactness and rapid vertical counters, leaning on the pace of Yoane Wissa, Théo Bongonda and Meschack Elia. The challenge is turning all that transition into clinical finishing — and their recent nights have tended to be low on goals.
Portugal offer the opposite texture. Roberto Martínez's men have won four of their last five, their matches the more open of the two, with Pedro Neto on the scoresheet in the latest — a 2-1 victory over Nigeria. Little wonder the bookmakers make them clear favourites.
And Cristiano Ronaldo? He waved away any fitness worries with a knowing 'Have you not seen me play?' Hard to argue with that.
Written and fact-checked by our AI preview desk from live match data. Refreshed as kickoff nears.
