Portugal Opens Group K Against DR Congo as 41-Year-Old Ronaldo Starts 6th World Cup
Updated
Updated · Sports Illustrated · Jun 17
Portugal Opens Group K Against DR Congo as 41-Year-Old Ronaldo Starts 6th World Cup
3 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated · Jun 17
Summary
Houston hosts Portugal’s Group K opener against DR Congo, with Roberto Martínez’s side chasing a first World Cup title and expected to make an early statement.
41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo is set to lead the line in his sixth World Cup after FIFA suspended the final two matches of a three-game ban tied to a qualifying red card.
Portugal’s edge is expected to come from a deep midfield led by Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha and João Neves, with the team ranked fifth in the world.
DR Congo, back at the World Cup for the first time since appearing as Zaire in 1974, are likely to defend deep after reaching the tournament through the inter-confederation playoff.
A 0-0 Spain-Cabo Verde draw has reinforced the risk of an African upset, but the preview projects Portugal to have too much quality and win 3-1.
Do expert predictions against Ronaldo signal the end of an era, or set the stage for his greatest World Cup triumph?
At 41, is Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal's greatest asset for World Cup glory or their most significant tactical liability?
FIFA’s Controversial Probation Lets Ronaldo Play Record Sixth World Cup Despite Violent Conduct Ban
Overview
Cristiano Ronaldo was initially at risk of missing the 2026 World Cup after receiving a red card for violent conduct against Ireland during the qualifiers, which was upgraded from a yellow card after a VAR review. FIFA first imposed a three-match ban, but after an appeal from Portugal, they issued a discretionary ruling on November 25, 2025, suspending two matches under a one-year probation. This allowed Ronaldo to play in the tournament, with the condition that any similar offense within a year would reinstate the ban. The decision sparked controversy due to its leniency compared to similar cases.