Why is Ruben Dias Not Playing Today for Portugal vs DR Congo in World Cup 2026?

An injury setback might have just left a gaping hole in Portugal's defensive line as Man City star Ruben Dias will not be part of the starting XI to face DR Congo on Wednesday, 17th June 2026 at Houston Stadium. Head coach Roberto Martinez provided official confirmation of the bad news during the pre-match press conference as Cristiano Ronaldo and his men face early challenges on the road to World Cup immortality.

Dias picked up a knock during the team's last pre-tournament friendly against Nigeria and faces a small spell on the sidelines. His absence will be a big miss for coach Martinez and the team.

Is Ruben Dias Not Playing Against DR Congo?

The Portuguese centre back has been a national team main stay since making his international debut in May 2018 during a friendly match against Tunisia that ended in a 2-2 draw. Fans wondering is Ruben Dias not playing today, will be thinking right as the Man City man will be absent.

DR Congo could prove to be a formidable opponent against the Selecao das Quinas on Wednesday with players like Cedric Bakambu, Yoane Wissa and Noah Sadiki in the lineup against them. While Portugal has managed four wins in their last five games, the Leopards have only managed two wins in that same stretch.