Ruben Dias' Status on Participating in the Match Against the Democratic Republic of Congo

Portuguese defender Ruben Dias has been confirmed to miss his national team's opening match in the 2026 World Cup against the Democratic Republic of the Congo due to not being fully physically fit, as announced by the team's coach Roberto Martinez.

Roberto Martinez explained in his statements during the press conference that the player is not suffering from a serious injury, but he has not reached full readiness. He confirmed: "Ruben Dias is not in his best physical condition, and there is no point in risking him. He is continuing his recovery process and will be available later."

The coach pointed out that the technical staff prefers not to play the player in the opening match to preserve his physical well-being, especially since he is considered one of the key elements in the Portuguese national team's defense line during the tournament.

In the same context, the medical follow-up on Ruben Diaz's condition clarified that he had been training separately in Palm Beach over the past few days before gradually returning by running with the group in the last training session. He then continued working individually with the physical trainer as part of a special rehabilitation program aimed at preparing him for upcoming matches.

According to the coaching staff's statements, the Portuguese national team will miss one of its key defensive players at the start of the World Cup, as they await the decision on who will replace him alongside Gonçalo Inácio. The choice is narrowed down to Renato Veiga and Tomás Araújo.