By Soccer Schedule Team | Last updated: April 30, 2026

DR Congo First Match World Cup 2026

The DR Congo first match at World Cup 2026 will be a major moment as the team returns to the tournament for the first time in decades. DR Congo will begin its Group K campaign against Portugal, making this one of the most exciting early matchups.

⚽ DR Congo First Match Details

Match: Portugal vs DR Congo
Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Kickoff Time: 1:00 PM Eastern Time
Stadium: Houston Stadium (NRG Stadium)
City: Houston, Texas, USA
Group: Group K

📅 When Does DR Congo Play First?

DR Congo plays its first World Cup 2026 match on June 17, 2026 against Portugal. This is their opening game in Group K, which also includes Colombia and Uzbekistan.

This match marks DR Congo’s return to the World Cup and represents a major opportunity to make an early impact on the global stage.

🏟️ Where Is DR Congo’s First Match?

DR Congo’s opening match will take place at Houston Stadium (NRG Stadium) in Houston, Texas. This venue will host several matches during the tournament and is known for its large capacity and energetic atmosphere.

Houston will also serve as a base location for DR Congo during the tournament, making this an important and familiar setting for the team.

View World Cup 2026 Host Cities and Stadiums

🔍 Portugal vs DR Congo Match Preview

The Portugal vs DR Congo matchup will be one of the most high-profile games early in the tournament. Portugal brings world-class talent, attacking strength, and strong tournament experience, while DR Congo enters as a motivated and energetic team looking to prove itself.

DR Congo may look to stay organized defensively and create chances through quick counterattacks, while Portugal will likely aim to control possession and apply constant attacking pressure.

This match could play a key role in shaping Group K standings, especially with both teams aiming to secure early points.

🔥 Key DR Congo Players to Watch

Cédric Bakambu – Experienced forward with strong goal-scoring ability.
Yoane Wissa – Dynamic attacker capable of creating and finishing chances.
Chancel Mbemba – Defensive leader providing strength and organization.
Gaël Kakuta – Midfielder known for creativity and technical ability.

📊 What to Expect From DR Congo’s First Match

DR Congo will likely approach this match with a disciplined defensive setup, focusing on limiting Portugal’s attacking opportunities while looking for chances on the counter.

If DR Congo can stay organized and capitalize on scoring chances, they could challenge one of the top teams in the group and potentially earn a valuable result.

The first goal will be especially important, as early momentum often shapes how opening matches unfold.

⏰ Convert Match Time

The kickoff time is listed as 1:00 PM Eastern Time. If you are watching from another region, use the match time converter tool to find your local kickoff time.

Use the Match Time Converter Tool

📌 DR Congo Group Stage Schedule

DR Congo is part of Group K in World Cup 2026, alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

June 17: Portugal vs DR Congo
June 23: Colombia vs DR Congo
June 27: DR Congo vs Uzbekistan

View the Full DR Congo Team Guide

🔗 Helpful World Cup 2026 Links

Final Thoughts

The DR Congo first match World Cup 2026 page provides fans with everything they need to know about this important opening game.

Facing Portugal in the first match is a tough challenge, but also a major opportunity for DR Congo to make a strong return to the World Cup and build momentum in Group K.