Portugal Warned of DR Congo ‘Defensive Wall’ in WC Opener
Portugal may enter the 2026 World Cup as heavy favorites, but they must beware of a “defensive wall” when they face the Democratic Republic of Congo this Wednesday. That is the warning from N’Dinga, the legendary former Zaire international who spent a decade starring in the Portuguese top flight.
The two sides meet in Houston for their Group K opener, marking a historic moment for the DR Congo (formerly Zaire), who return to the world stage for the first time in 52 years. While Portugal arrives as Nations League holders and a perennial title contender, N’Dinga warns that complacency could be their undoing.
“Portugal Must Be Portugal”
“I think Portugal should win, but they can never give chances,” the 59-year-old former Vitória de Guimarães midfielder told Lusa. “If the opponent scores a goal, they will definitely close ranks. Portugal has to be very attentive.”
N’Dinga, who holds the record for the most top-flight appearances for Guimarães, believes the “Leopards” of DR Congo will rely on their physicality and newfound tactical cohesion to frustrate the Portuguese stars. “Portugal just needs to be themselves, but they will have to run a bit more. This game provides extra motivation for the Congolese players to show their strength.”
A Defensive Stronghold
Under French coach Sébastien Desabre, the DR Congo has developed a reputation for being remarkably difficult to break down. In the 13 matches leading up to the World Cup, they kept eight clean sheets and conceded only seven goals. The backbone of this resilience includes former FC Porto defender Chancel Mbemba, alongside Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe.
“They don’t score many goals, but they don’t concede many either,” N’Dinga noted. “They are good at defending. If they pass the first phase in a group with giants like Colombia and Portugal, it will already be a victory.”
The Ronaldo Factor
Despite his Congolese roots, N’Dinga—who has lived in Portugal and now resides in Toronto—admits he would love to see Portugal finally lift the trophy. He points to Portugal’s midfield as “perhaps the best in the world” and believes the veteran presence of Cristiano Ronaldo remains a X-factor.
“Whether you like it or not, he knows how to decide games,” N’Dinga said. “For me, the best teams in the tournament could be France and Portugal.”
As the tournament expands to 48 teams, the DR Congo is one of a record 10 African nations competing. N’Dinga believes the gap between the continents is closing. “Football is no longer what it was. There isn’t that much difference physically and mentally anymore. Whoever handles the pressure better will win.”
Portugal and DR Congo kick off at 12:00 local time (18:00 Lisbon) at the NRG Stadium in Houston, while Group K rivals Uzbekistan and Colombia face off in Mexico City.
Image: Pexels – Omar Ramadan
