DR Congo has opted for a defensive strategy, employing five players at the back. It’s surprising that Noah Sadiki has been excluded, but the three players chosen to start have proven their worth in previous matches.
On Portugal’s side, the team is without Dias due to injury. However, it is unexpected to see Gonçalo Inácio not included in the lineup, given his crucial passing abilities. Aside from that, the starting eleven aligns closely with what was anticipated, with the only decision left for coach Martínez being the selection for the left-wing position. He has chosen Pedro Neto over João Félix and Rafael Leão.
Team Lineups
Portugal’s formation is 4-2-3-1, featuring Diogo Costa in goal; with Cancelo, Araújo, Veiga, and Mendes forming the defense. Vitinha and Neves are set as midfielders, while Bernardo Silva, Fernandes, and Neto support Ronaldo in the attack. The substitutes include Semedo, Dalot, Rui Silva, Conceição, João Félix, Guedes, Inácio, Trincão, Sá, Ramos, Nunes, Leão, Neves, Samú Costa, and Dias.
For DR Congo, they are adopting a 5-3-2 formation, with Mpasi as the goalkeeper; the defensive line consists of Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kapaudi, and Masuaku. Moutoussamy, Mukau, and Kayembe will handle the midfield, while Bakaumbu and Wissa lead the attack. Their bench includes Banza, Batubinsika, Bongoda, Elia, Epolo, Fayulu, Kakuta, Mayele, Kalulu, Kayembe, Cipenga, Mbuku, Pickel, Sadiki, and Tshibola.
Match Officials
The match will be officiated by referee Abdulrahman Ibrahim Al Jassim from Qatar.
