Rúben Dias misses Portugal's World Cup opener

Rúben Dias out for the opener

Bad news right before kickoff. Rúben Dias will miss Portugal's World Cup opener against DR Congo on Wednesday (1). No details yet on what is keeping him out, but losing your best centre-back before the first game stings.

Cristiano Ronaldo's last World Cup begins

This is it. Cristiano Ronaldo starts his sixth and final World Cup on Wednesday, chasing the one prize missing from his career (2) (5). Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, João Neves, and Gonçalo Ramos are all expected to feature alongside him (2). A win here, in a tournament where Portugal carry Diogo Jota's memory on their wrists, sets the tone.

Roberto Martínez confirms he leaves after the tournament

No ambiguity. "My contract expires after the World Cup. That is nothing new, just a fact," Roberto Martínez told the press (3). The Portugal coach is gone when the campaign ends, regardless of how far your team goes.

Bruno Fernandes: the best midfield at the tournament

Bruno Fernandes is not holding back. He said he hopes Portugal have the best starting eleven at the World Cup (7). But he also warned that DR Congo will create problems, and that the team must take it game by game (8).

Martínez: 'a rational dream'

The coach struck a confident note ahead of the match. Portugal are prepared, and Martínez described the World Cup ambition as a "rational dream" (4). He was also asked about whether the squad speaks with too many voices heading into the tournament (6).