Axel Tuanzebe, captain of the DR Congo national team, will face his former mentor Cristiano Ronaldo when DR Congo meets Portugal in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup on June 17 at NRG Stadium in Houston [1, 2, 3, 4]. Tuanzebe and Ronaldo were teammates at Manchester United from August 2021 until Ronaldo's departure in November 2022, during which time Ronaldo offered advice on football and life. Tuanzebe described Ronaldo as “open, friendly, willing to teach, and not arrogant” despite his status as one of football’s greats [1, 2, 3, 4].
Tuanzebe, aged 28, secured DR Congo’s first World Cup qualification in 52 years by scoring an extra-time winner against Jamaica, uplifting a nation long affected by conflict [1, 2, 3, 4]. DR Congo last appeared at the World Cup in 1974 as Zaire, losing all three games without scoring and conceding 14 goals in total [5, 6].
Ronaldo, 41, will compete in his record sixth World Cup in 2026, aiming for his first tournament win [1, 2, 3, 4]. Tuanzebe said he has “no fear” facing Ronaldo and will focus on doing his best for his country [1].
DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre emphasized the team’s resolve, saying, “We have 100 million Congolese people who will be watching us. Of course, we want to perform well. We want to show courage.” He added the team will take “measured risks” to try and surprise the favored Portuguese side [5, 6].
The DR Congo squad includes many players active in European leagues, bringing speed and tactical flexibility to the group. Despite Ebola outbreaks in DR Congo, most players based in Europe meant preparations were largely unaffected; however, fewer traveling fans are expected due to restrictions [5, 6].
DR Congo will face Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan in Group K. The tournament kicks off June 17 with the high-profile DR Congo-Portugal opener in Houston [1, 2, 5, 3, 4, 6].
