Cristiano Ronaldo will have a chance to make World Cup history on Wednesday as Portugal start your own 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against DR Congowhile England faces Croatia in one of the most important matches of the day.
The Portugal captain aims to become the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments when his side take on the Leopards in Houston.
Ronaldo eyes another World Cup milestone
Ronaldo is expected to lead Portugal’s attack in the Group K opener as the 41-year-old continues his quest to make footballing history.
The veteran forward has already become the first player to appear in six World Cups and now has the chance to add another remarkable achievement to his record.
Ahead of the match, Ronaldo emphasized the importance of a strong start to the tournament.
“We’re going game by game, but not with the expectation of winning everything,” Ronaldo said before Portugal’s departure. “He has to go step by step. A good start is the most important thing.”
Despite DR Congo’s underdog status, Portugal is the clear favorite. According to Opti’s supercomputer, Portugal won 54.6 percent of 25,000 pre-match simulations, while DR Congo won 23.1 percent. The remaining 22.3 percent ended in a draw.
DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre admitted he hoped Ronaldo would reach his milestone at some point during the tournament – just not against his own team.
England will face a tough test from Croatia
On the other hand, England kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas as Thomas Tuchel’s side look to get off to a winning start in Group D.
The Three Lions enter the tournament among the favorites and will try to avoid an early setback against the experienced Croatians.
Ghana will also begin their campaign against Panama in Toronto, while Colombia face Uzbekistan in Mexico City in the final game of the day.
World Cup matches on Wednesday
– 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)
