New crisis: cancel Portugal training and press conference ahead of DRC game

There was concern in the Portuguese national team’s camp as a powerful storm approached the area where it was due to train in preparation for a match against the Democratic Republic of Congo, the two teams’ opening match at the 2026 World Cup.

It was reported by Footmercato Weather conditions deteriorated rapidlyforcing the players to evacuate the training center.

Several media reports indicated that the players remained inside the bus while officials and local authorities closely monitored the situation.

A press conference scheduled for later that day was abruptly canceled, training was suspended due to the storm, and there were several long minutes of uncertainty regarding Portugal’s match schedule.

Images of the group stranded and unable to train immediately raised questions as the countdown to next Wednesday’s game against the Democratic Republic of Congo continues.

After the tent erected next to the stadium was evacuated, journalists, members of the organization and other participants were directed to their cars for safety reasons, and the Portuguese Football Federation confirmed the cancellation of the press conference in which Mateus Núñez was supposed to participate, according to the protocol established in such cases.

This weather warning created an atmosphere of unusual tension around the team, which sought to remain as calm as possible.

While there is no direct threat to player safety, the incident is a reminder of how much external events affect teams’ preparation for the World Cup, as has already happened in recent days with Iran, Uruguay and England.

Heavy rain and lightning in the area, along with safety instructions from the authorities, forced the Portuguese national team to rethink its entire training schedule.

Portuguese daily A Bola reported last night that all members of the delegation are now awaiting the next official announcement from the Portuguese Football Federation to see if an alternative training session can be arranged.

Just days before the decisive match, this storm cast doubts and cast a shadow on the preparation program of Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammates, who found themselves in an unexpected and worrying situation.