Goals Expected as Portugal Begin World Cup Campaign
Portugal possess one of the strongest attacks in the tournament and face a DR Congo side appearing at their first World Cup in more than five decades. With Portugal capable of covering the line on their own and DR Congo dangerous on the counter, over 2.5 goals offers excellent value.
Match: Portugal vs DR Congo
League / Competition: World Cup
Our Pick: Over 2.5 goals
Odds: 1.85
Market: Over/Under
Analyst Confidence: 4/5
Portugal head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of the favourites and their attacking numbers suggest goals could arrive early in the tournament. Roberto Martínez's side have been scoring freely throughout qualifying and recent internationals, including a stunning 9-1 victory over Armenia.
Nine of Portugal's last 13 matches have produced over 2.5 goals, highlighting both their offensive quality and willingness to play aggressive football. With players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Leão, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva available, chances should not be difficult to create.
DR Congo may be tournament newcomers, but they are unlikely to simply sit back for 90 minutes. This is a historic occasion for the nation and they possess attacking threats of their own, most notably Cédric Bakambu. If they are forced to chase the game after conceding, the match could open up significantly.
Portugal's recent World Cup openers have also tended to be entertaining. Their last four opening matches at the tournament have produced a combined 15 goals, including the 3-2 victory over Ghana in 2022.
The biggest reason for backing goals is Portugal themselves. They have enough quality to score three goals against most teams in the competition, and if DR Congo contribute even once, the over becomes very attractive.