Ahead of Portugal’s 2026 World Cup opener against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday, June 17, Congo coach Sébastien Desabre said he hopes Cristiano Ronaldo scores—but “not against us,” as Ronaldo looks set to become the only player to score in six
HOUSTON — The night before Portugal’s opening match at the 2026 World Cup carried an unusual tension: not just about stopping one star, but about whether history would be written at Congo’s expense.
On Wednesday, June 17, Cristiano Ronaldo will face the Democratic Republic of Congo in Portugal’s first game, with a milestone within reach. If he scores, the 41-year-old forward would become the only man to score in six World Cups.
Congo coach Sébastien Desabre didn’t hide his preference. “I wish him the best,” Desabre said with a cheeky smile, before adding: “I hope that he scores, but not against us.”
Ronaldo’s pursuit of that mark is rooted in an already staggering résumé. He was the first man to score in five different World Cups, with goals across 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022. He has eight goals across 22 previous World Cup appearances. This summer. he and Lionel Messi can share a World Cup record as the only men to play in six World Cups.
Portugal heads into the tournament led by Ronaldo alongside Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes and PSG midfielder Vitinha. In Group K, Portugal is considered the favorite, joined by Congo, Colombia and Uzbekistan. For Desabre, the challenge is bigger than simply tracking Ronaldo.
Desabre said his team is preparing to reduce the speed of Portugal’s overall attack. “It’s not just about Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said. “Of course he’s decisive, very influential in their play but there are other players, too. (Ronaldo) is probably one of the best players in the history of football but we’ll try to face him collectively. It’s a real challenge for us and when it comes down to set pieces. this is where he’s the best. But we are not focusing only on one player.”.
The match carries its own weight for Congo beyond the immediate spotlight. Congo is playing in its second World Cup, 52 years after its debut appearance in 1974, when the country was still called Zaire. Desabre said that long arc of experience has shaped the team’s mindset.
“There’s no fear ahead of those big events,” Desabre said. “This is part of the DNA of the Congolese people and we are very proud of us. We cannot wait to get started.”
The immediate question for Congo is straightforward: can it keep Ronaldo quiet for just one game, even as Portugal arrives built around his ability—and even as a single goal could turn a personal achievement into a global record.
Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup 2026 Portugal vs Democratic Republic of Congo Sébastien Desabre Group K Bruno Fernandes Vitinha Lionel Messi
So basically he’s asking Ronaldo to score but like not in that one game??
I don’t get it, coach said “I hope he scores” but then “not against us.” That’s like every coach ever. Just say you’re scared lol.
Also why is it saying Ronaldo is chasing history at 41 like he can’t miss one? If he scores, Congo “pays the price”?? That sounds dramatic. I’m pretty sure the whole group standings matter more than one guy getting a record.
World Cup record stuff is cool but I swear these articles always act like one goal ruins everything. Congo probably still needs points. And set pieces?? Ronaldo best at set pieces? Wasn’t he more of a tap-in guy? Idk, I just remember everybody talking about Messi too like it’s automatically going to be the same outcome again.