Portugal Dealt Major Blow One Day Before First World Cup Game
The 2026 World Cup began last week across the United States, Mexico and Canada, as the top players from around the globe will compete for the ultimate title in soccer. Portugal is one of the biggest favorites to win this year's tournament, along with France, Spain, England and defending champion Argentina.
Portugal is led by five-time Ballon d'Or-winning forward Cristiano Ronaldo, who is playing in his record sixth World Cup. At 41 years old, this is most likely Ronaldo's final chance to claim the biggest trophy in international play.
He is supported by a phenomenal group of players from some of the world's top leagues, including Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leao, Diogo Dalot and many others.
One of the other big names on Portugal's squad for this year's tournament is defender Ruben Dias. The 29-year-old center back, who plays for Manchester City in England's Premier League, has been one of the top defenders in the world since making the move to England.
However, in recent days, Dias has been dealing with an injury in training, and there have been doubts about him being ready for Portugal's first World Cup game against the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
On Tuesday, Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez gave an update on Dias' status.
" OFFICIAL: Ruben Dias misses Portugal opening game against Congo. 'He's not fully fit and we won't take any risks,' says Roberto Martínez," according to international soccer reporter Fabrizio Romano.
OFFICIAL: Ruben Dias misses Portugal opening game against Congo.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 17, 2026
"He's not fully fit and we won't take any risks", says Roberto Martínez. pic.twitter.com/qRhRBrHCi7
This is disappointing news for Portugal fans, who will have to watch their squad be without their star in the middle of defense against the Congo.
Kickoff between the two squads is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET at Houston Stadium on Wednesday. The game will be broadcast live on Fox, Telemundo and Universo.
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This story was originally published June 16, 2026 at 6:03 PM.