Will DR Congo advance to the knockout stages at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Prediction markets put the probability at 57%: Will DR Congo advance to the knockout stages at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Currently, markets are divided (57% YES, 43% NO). DR Congo's return to the World Cup stage in 2026 was one of the more encapsulating storylines heading into the tournament.

What’s Happening

DR Congo opened its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Portugal in Group K at Houston Stadium on June 17, 2026, claiming the nation's first-ever World Cup point. Forward Yoane Wissa equalized with a header before halftime after João Neves had given Portugal the lead, while a João Cancelo bicycle-kick effort was ruled out for offside. The result places DR Congo on 1 point after Matchday 1, level with Portugal in the early group standings and within striking distance of a knockout berth. [FOX Sports, Jun 17]

The Léopards' return ended a 52-year World Cup absence dating to 1974, when the nation competed under its former name, Zaire. DR Congo carries the ISO alpha-3 code COD, the same designation worn through qualifying. Portugal arrived in the United States off three consecutive friendly wins over the USA, Chile, and Nigeria by a combined 6-2 scoreline, having qualified by topping UEFA Group F. The opening draw narrows Portugal's projected margin in the group and reshapes the path for DR Congo advance to the knockout stages at the FIFA World Cup, given the expanded 48-team format that promotes the top two finishers from each group plus the best third-placed sides. [Sporting News, Jun 17]

Two Group K fixtures remain on the DR Congo schedule before the group-stage cutoff, with the third-place qualification route requiring a competitive goal differential alongside the existing point. Coaching focus will hinge on Wissa's finishing form, the defensive resilience shown against Portugal's front line, and rotation across the squad. Historical precedent for African debutants returning after multi-decade absences is limited — Zaire's 1974 side exited at the group stage without a point or goal scored, making the June 17 draw an immediate improvement on that record. The remaining group fixtures will determine whether DR Congo advance to the knockout stages at the FIFA World Cup becomes the next milestone or whether the campaign closes at the group phase. [FOX Sports, Jun 17]

Traded on Polymarket — $55K Volume

Lower-volume market on Polymarket ($55K). Wider spreads expected — enter with limit orders and be aware of slippage risk. Currently 57c YES.