World Cup 2026: DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre downplays pressure ahead of Portugal opener

DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete against Portugal as the Leopards prepare for their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Central African nation will begin its Group K campaign against Portugal national football team on Wednesday, 17 June, in what promises to be one of the most demanding fixtures of the group stage. The match will also see DR Congo come up against Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo and a squad widely regarded as one of the strongest in international football.

Despite the magnitude of the challenge, Desabre appeared relaxed and optimistic during his pre-match press conference, insisting that his players are fully prepared for the occasion and eager to test themselves against elite opposition.

The French tactician began by providing encouraging news regarding the condition of his squad, confirming that all of his players are available for selection ahead of the crucial encounter. The fitness update comes as a major boost for the Leopards, who will need all of their key players available if they are to produce a positive result against the European giants.

While acknowledging Portugal’s quality and status among the favourites, Desabre made it clear that he does not view the opening fixture as the defining moment of DR Congo’s tournament. Instead, he stressed that qualification from Group K will be determined by performances across all three group matches rather than a single result.

“Everyone one hundred percent fit. We’re not under any particular pressure; it’s just one of the three matches we have to play,” Desabre said.

“Our aim is to secure three or four points to progress to the next round. We’re playing against one of the best teams in the world, and we can’t wait to get started.”

The DR Congo coach also underlined his belief in the strengths of his squad, insisting that the Leopards possess the qualities required to compete on football’s biggest stage.

“We’ll play to our strengths; we’ve got what it takes to make our mark on the pitch,” he added.

Desabre’s comments reflect the confidence growing within the Congolese camp ahead of their long-awaited return to the World Cup. Having worked extensively to build a competitive and disciplined side, the coach is hoping his players can demonstrate their progress against one of the tournament’s heavyweight nations.

For DR Congo, the clash represents an opportunity not only to collect valuable points but also to announce themselves on the global stage. Although Portugal enter the match as favourites, the Leopards are determined to show they belong among the world’s best and are capable of challenging any opponent.

With a fully fit squad, a clear game plan and a confident coach at the helm, DR Congo will head into Wednesday’s encounter believing they can make life difficult for Portugal and lay the foundation for a successful World Cup campaign.