Cristiano Ronaldo will have the opportunity to make World Cup history on Wednesday as Portugal begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against DR Congo, while England face Croatia in one of the day’s standout fixtures.
The Portugal captain is aiming to become the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments when his side takes on the Leopards in Houston.
Ronaldo eyes another World Cup milestone
Ronaldo is expected to lead Portugal’s attack in their Group K opener as the 41-year-old continues his pursuit of football history.
The veteran forward has already become the first player to appear at six World Cups and now has the chance to add another remarkable achievement to his record.
Ahead of the game, Ronaldo stressed the importance of making a strong start to the tournament.
“We go match by match, but not with the expectations of winning it all,” Ronaldo said before Portugal’s departure. “It has to be step by step. A good start is the most important thing.”
Despite DR Congo’s status as underdogs, Portugal are clear favourites. According to Opta’s supercomputer, Portugal won 54.6 per cent of 25,000 pre-match simulations, while DR Congo were victorious in 23.1 per cent. The remaining 22.3 per cent ended in draws.
DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre admitted he hopes Ronaldo achieves his milestone at some point during the tournament – just not against his side.
England face tricky Croatia test
Elsewhere, England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas as Thomas Tuchel’s side look to make a winning start in Group D.
The Three Lions enter the tournament among the favourites and will be keen to avoid an early setback against the experienced Croatians.
Ghana will also get their campaign underway against Panama in Toronto, while Colombia face Uzbekistan in Mexico City in the final fixture of the day.
Wednesday’s World Cup fixtures
– Portugal vs DR Congo – Houston Stadium (18:00 WAT)
– England vs Croatia – Dallas Stadium (21:00 WAT)
– Ghana vs Panama – Toronto Stadium (00:00 WAT Thursday)
– Colombia vs Uzbekistan – Mexico City Stadium (03:00 WAT, Thursday)
