World Cup opener set as Portugal's training disrupted by storm

World Cup opener: Portugal vs DR Congo on Wednesday

It's finally here. Portugal kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign against DR Congo in Group K on Wednesday (7). The opening match is the one everyone has been building toward through the closed camp in Oeiras, and Roberto Martinez has a fully fit squad at his disposal. Every player is available.

Storm cancels Sunday training session

Not the ideal run-in. Portugal's training session on Sunday was cancelled due to a storm (1). One disrupted session shouldn't throw preparations off track, but it's a frustration with the opener just days away.

Qatari referee Al Jassim appointed for the opener

Abdulrahman Al Jassim of Qatar will officiate Portugal's World Cup debut against DR Congo (3) (7). He has history with Portuguese football, having previously refereed Portugal at U20 level (3). Rúben Dias and the squad now know exactly who'll be in charge on Wednesday.

Vitinha: 'A Portugal side like this has never been seen'

Vitinha is bullish. The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder said he has never seen a Portugal national team of this quality before (6). He also singled out João Neves, expressing hope the two can play together during the tournament (6). The confidence coming out of camp is unmistakable.

Fan reactions

Fans are focused on a quieter story off the pitch. Portugal's players are all wearing bracelets engraved with their own names alongside Diogo Jota's, a tribute to the former teammate who passed away in 2025. Vitinha explained the bracelets were a gift from the Prime Minister. Read the full thread here.