Portugal vs. Congo: Messi Calls, Ronaldo Responds?

The 2026 World Cup is already thrilling and promises to continue the intense rivalry between superstars Messi and Ronaldo. In Argentina's Group J opener on the morning of June 17, playing his 200th match for the national team, Messi shone brightly with a hat-trick, helping the defending champions defeat North African side Algeria 3-0.

Portugal's current form is quite strong. All three friendly matches before heading to North America saw coach Roberto Martínez's men secure victories. Among them, the 2-1 win over Nigeria can be seen as a final rehearsal for the Seleccao ahead of facing Congo. However, after upsets caused by Cape Verde, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, the big teams can no longer afford to underestimate any opponent.

Meanwhile, Congo's last World Cup appearance was over 50 years ago. They have gone through a long and tense qualification campaign, including continental and intercontinental playoffs.

Congo is predicted to be one of the tournament's interesting dark horses. Like many other African representatives, Congo has become stronger in recent years thanks to its diaspora stars. Besides players born in France, Congo also has many stars of English origin. For this World Cup, Congo's squad includes notable names such as Wan-Bissaka and Tuanzebe.

Congo's form is also quite impressive. In their last nine matches across all competitions, coach Sebastien Desabre's side has only lost once, drawn four times, and won four. Remarkably, Congo's defense has conceded only three goals and kept clean sheets in seven matches.

Congo's playing style shares many similarities with Cape Verde, who recently held Spain to a draw. Congo's players have impressive physical foundations, the ability to endure intense heat, and strong, tenacious defenders capable of tight marking and aggressive defending.

All eyes will be on superstar Ronaldo during the match. At age 41, Ronaldo is no longer a constant threat to opposing defenders, but in coach Roberto Martínez's tactical system, he remains the central figure of Portugal's game plan.

Heading into World Cup 2026, CR7 still holds the role of main striker. Supporting Ronaldo is a very strong midfield that gives Portugal confidence in their ability to compete for the gold cup: Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, and Joao Neves.

It is likely that Vitinha will be deployed as the deepest midfielder, with Bernardo Silva on the right, Bruno Fernandes as the attacking midfielder, and Joao Neves playing on the left. These are all excellent midfielders capable of providing the best opportunities for Ronaldo. Additionally, Portugal has Joao Cancelo and Nuno Mendes providing pace from the flanks.

Having won EURO 2016 and the World Cup with Portugal, the only missing peak in CR7's illustrious career is a World Cup title. Five World Cups have come and gone, and Ronaldo has yet to lay his hands on the golden trophy. His best achievement with the national team was reaching the quarterfinals four years ago. This is a modest result compared to the quality of the squad Portugal possesses.

Under coach Roberto Martínez's leadership, Portugal won the 2025 Nations League after beating Germany (semi-final) and Spain (final). Portugal currently boasts one of the most talented squads in the world, fully capable of rising to glory this summer.

A powerful and ambitious Portugal will begin their quest for the 2026 World Cup crown against Congo. This is the trophy Ronaldo desires more than any other, one he has yet to touch, even as he makes history by appearing in his sixth World Cup, matching Messi's record.

In what may be his final blazing run on the World Cup stage, the 41-year-old superstar is sure to be even more determined. For Ronaldo and his teammates' dream to come true, Portugal needs an outstanding and fortunate journey in this tournament.

The match between Portugal and Congo will take place at midnight on June 18. Although heavily favored over their opponent, the lesson from Spain's recent draw with another African team remains fresh in the minds of Ronaldo and his teammates.

Predicted starting lineups for both teams
Portugal: Diogo Costa, Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Inacio, Mendes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes, Ronaldo, Pedro Neto
Congo: Mpasi, Wan-Bissaka, Kapuadi, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Masuaku, Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Mukau, Wissa, Bakambu