With just over an hour to go before kickoff at NRG Stadium, the official lineups have just been announced, confirming the strategic choices of both head coaches. otherwise
While the attack remains a classic and formidable one with captain Cristiano Ronaldo flanked by Bernardo Silva and Pedro Neto the surprise comes from the center of defense.
Without Ruben Dias, the Spanish coach has chosen to pair young Renato Veiga with Tomas Araujo, preferring the latter over Goncalo Inacio contrary to initial predictions.
In midfield, the trio of Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Bruno Fernandes will be tasked with dictating the tempo.
As for the Leopards, Sebastien Desabre remains true to his principles of solidity for the DRC’s historic return after a 52-year wait.
Portugal lineup:
Diogo Costa (1); João Cancelo (20); Renato Veiga (13); Tomas Araujo (4); Nuno Mendes (25); Joao Neves (15); Vitinha (23); Bruno Fernandes (8); Bernardo Silva (10; Cristiano Ronaldo (7); Pedro Neto (18)
DR Congo lineup
Lionel Mpasi-Nzau (1); Axel Tuanzebe (4); Chancel Mbemba (22) ; Steve Kapuadi (3); Aaron Wan-Bissaka (2); Edo Kayembe (25); Samuel Moutoussamy (8); Ngal’ayel Mukau (6); Arthur Masuaku (26); Yoane Wissa (20); Cedric Bakambu (17)
