DR Congo-Chile Friendly Moved to France Over Ebola Fears
A World Cup warm-up match between DR Congo and Chile, originally scheduled in La Línea de la Concepción, Spain, was canceled by the mayor due to Ebola outbreak concerns. The match was relocated to Orléans, France, and will be played behind closed doors. DR Congo qualified for its first World Cup since 1974. The team, based in Europe, must remain symptom-free for 21 days before entering the U.S. or Mexico for the tournament.
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What does the DR stand for in DR Congo? World Cup abbreviation explained
The Mirror reports on DR Congo's round of 32 match against England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, explaining that 'DR' stands for 'Democratic Republic' to distinguish the country from its neighbor, the Republic of the Congo. DR Congo qualified for the knockouts as one of the best third-placed teams in Group K, after a narrow loss to Colombia, a 1-1 draw with Portugal, and a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan. This marks the nation's first World Cup knockout stage appearance and only its second World Cup qualification, ending a 52-year absence. The country previously competed under the name Zaire in 1974, where it failed to score a goal. The article also includes affiliate links for England kits.
Mirror - FootballDR Congo's World Cup history: From Zaire to knockout stage clash with England
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has advanced to the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time in history, setting up a round of 32 match against England in the 2026 World Cup. The article highlights that DR Congo's only previous World Cup appearance was 52 years ago in 1974, when the nation was known as Zaire. That team became the first Sub-Saharan African country to qualify but lost all three group matches without scoring. The article traces the country's name changes from Congo-Kinshasa to Zaire under dictator Mobutu Sese Seko in 1971, and back to DR Congo after his overthrow in 1997. The current team, coached by Sebastien Desabre, qualified for the knockout stage as one of the best third-place finishers after a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan.
Mirror - FootballDR Congo Captain Mbemba Warns England: 'Miracles Can Happen' at World Cup
DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba expressed confidence ahead of their knockout match against England, telling media that 'the World Cup is a place where miracles can happen.' The African underdog made history by defeating Uzbekistan in the group stage—their first-ever World Cup victory. Mbemba, the nation's most capped player with 112 appearances, acknowledged England's strength but emphasized his team has nothing to lose. Coach Sebastien Desabre revealed the team held pre-tournament camp in Belgium due to an Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, arriving in North America via Paris. The round-of-32 match is scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta.
虎扑 - 足球England sent World Cup warning by DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba ahead of last 32 clash
England will face DR Congo in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup after finishing top of their group with a 2-0 win over Panama. DR Congo, making historic progress to the knockout stage after their first-ever World Cup win (against Uzbekistan), are massive underdogs but captain Chancel Mbemba has warned England that his team will be ready. Mbemba, the Lille defender with 112 caps, said Congo have nothing to lose and everything to gain. DR Congo's preparation was complicated by an Ebola outbreak in their homeland, forcing a training camp in Belgium and travel via Paris. Coach Sebastian Desabre expressed pride in his squad's sacrifice and belief. The match will take place in Atlanta.
Mirror - FootballWhy DR Congo's statue superfan missed 2026 World Cup opener against Portugal
DR Congo's iconic superfan Michel Kuka Mboladinga, known as Lumumba Vea, missed the team's 2026 World Cup opener against Portugal in Houston due to U.S. entry restrictions related to an Ebola outbreak. The 49-year-old, who gained fame at the Africa Cup of Nations by standing motionless as a tribute to Patrice Lumumba, was expected to be in the stands but his travel clearance was complicated. Despite his absence, DR Congo secured a historic 1-1 draw against Portugal in their first World Cup match in 52 years. President Félix Tshisekedi intervened to help Mboladinga join the delegation later in the tournament, and he is now expected to attend the June 27 match against Uzbekistan in Atlanta.
Yardbarker: SoccerPortugal-DR Congo: Why the 'Lumumba' Statue Supporter Is Not Present at World Cup Opener
Michel Kuka Mboladinga, a Congolese supporter nicknamed 'Lumumba' for his statue-like stillness during matches, was absent from the Democratic Republic of Congo's first World Cup match in 52 years against Portugal in Houston on June 17, 2026. The absence was due to a 21-day quarantine requirement imposed by the United States related to the Ebola epidemic. DRC authorities, recognizing his positive impact, organized a health bubble in Brussels to help him obtain a US visa. He is expected to attend the Leopards' second Group K match against Colombia in Guadalajara, Mexico. Despite his absence, the Congolese diaspora in the US provided strong support, with 10,000 fans in Houston and 16,000 in Dallas, celebrating Yoane Wissa's equalizer as the team's first World Cup goal.
Home Football - actualitésDesabre Moved by Congolese Fans Unable to Travel to World Cup
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is returning to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 52 years, having last participated in 1974 under the name Zaire. Coach Sébastien Desabre expressed emotion over the fact that few Congolese supporters will be able to attend the team's opening match against Portugal in Houston, Texas. The DRC's preparation and arrival in the United States were disrupted by a severe Ebola epidemic raging in the country. Additionally, a mandatory 21-day quarantine in a third country is required before entering the U.S., severely limiting the number of traveling fans. The article, published on June 17, 2026, highlights the intersection of sports, public health, and travel restrictions.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuDR Congo Coach Desabre Embraces Underdog Role Ahead of World Cup Opener Against Portugal
Democratic Republic of Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre addressed the media on the eve of the World Cup opener against Portugal. He acknowledged Portugal as one of the world's best teams but emphasized his team's lack of fear and motivation to compete. Desabre stated that DR Congo likes being the underdog and that the goal is to secure 3 or 4 points to advance from the group, taking each match as it comes. He discussed the team's psychological readiness, the significance of returning to the World Cup after 52 years, and the support of 100 million Congolese fans. Desabre also addressed preparation adjustments due to the Ebola outbreak, the team's base camp in Houston, and the cultural statement made by his leopard-print suit.
虎扑 - 足球DR Congo arrives at World Cup with style and pride after 52-year absence
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national football team arrived in Houston for the 2026 World Cup, marking their first appearance since 1974 when they competed as Zaire. Players wore tuxedo suits and leopard-print sashes, channeling the La Sape fashion movement from 1970s Kinshasa. Their return was complicated by an Ebola outbreak in their homeland and a mandatory 21-day isolation period imposed by US authorities, forcing the team to train in Belgium and cancel a friendly with Chile. Despite these challenges, the squad received a warm welcome from local volunteers and the Congolese diaspora community in Houston, estimated at 10,000 people. The team will face Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo in their opening match. Coach Sébastien Desabre expressed confidence in adapting to the disrupted preparation, while veteran forward Cédric Bakambu drew the most attention from fans during an open training session.
Football | The GuardianDR Congo arrives at World Cup with style and pride after 52-year absence
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national football team arrived in Houston for the 2026 World Cup, marking their first appearance since 1974 (as Zaire). The players made a stylish entrance wearing tuxedos and leopard-print sashes, channeling the La Sape fashion movement. Their participation was complicated by an Ebola outbreak in the DRC and a mandatory 21-day isolation period in Belgium, where they played only one friendly. Despite disrupted preparations, the team received a warm welcome from local volunteers and the Congolese diaspora in Houston. They face a tough opening match against Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo, but the team and fans emphasize the significance of simply being at the tournament after decades of waiting.
Football | The GuardianDR Congo brings style and pride to World Cup after wholesome Houston welcome
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national football team arrived in Houston for their first World Cup appearance since 1974, when they competed as Zaire. Players wore tuxedo suits and leopard-print sashes, channeling the La Sape fashion movement from 1970s Kinshasa. Their return to the tournament was complicated by an Ebola outbreak in their homeland and a 21-day US-imposed isolation period spent in Belgium, where they played only one friendly against Denmark. Upon arrival, they received a warm welcome from local volunteers and the Congolese diaspora community, estimated at 10,000 in Houston. The team will be based in Houston and face Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo in their opening match. Coach Sébastien Desabre downplayed the disrupted preparation, saying the team remains focused. Veteran forward Cédric Bakambu drew the most attention from fans during an open training session.
Football | The GuardianDR Congo Sports Minister Assures Health Protocols Followed Amid Ebola Outbreak Ahead of World Cup
The Democratic Republic of Congo's Sports Minister Didier Budimbu Ntubuanga stated that the national football team 'respected all recommended health measures' in response to the Ebola epidemic that has disrupted their World Cup preparations. The team canceled a planned training camp in Kinshasa and saw a preparation match in La Linea de la Concepcion, Spain, banned by the local mayor. The match was eventually played behind closed doors in Orléans, France, against Chile, resulting in a 1-2 defeat. The minister expressed confusion over the Spanish ban, noting that the players do not play in Congo. The country has been battling an Ebola outbreak since mid-May with 500 confirmed cases and dozens of deaths. DR Congo, returning to the World Cup for the first time since 1974, will face Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan in the group stage in the United States. The minister expressed confidence that the team will face no administrative issues upon arrival, as staff have already received visas.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuDR Congo loses final World Cup warm-up friendly to Chile 2-1
The Democratic Republic of the Congo lost 2-1 to Chile in their final preparatory friendly for the 2026 World Cup, played behind closed doors at the Orléans stadium in France. The match was originally scheduled in La Línea de la Concepción, Spain, but was prohibited by the mayor due to the Ebola epidemic in DR Congo. Chile scored through Darío Osorio (51') and Matías Sepúlveda (88'), with Joris Kayembe pulling one back for DR Congo in the 89th minute. The African team, coached by Sébastien Desabre, had previously drawn 0-0 with Denmark. DR Congo will debut in the World Cup on June 17 against Portugal, followed by matches against Colombia and Uzbekistan. US officials require players and staff to have been outside DR Congo for 21 days with no symptoms before entering the US for the tournament. The team plans to travel to their base camp in Houston on Thursday.
FútbolDR Congo Falls to Chile in Final World Cup Warm-Up, Heads to USA with Uncertainty
The Democratic Republic of Congo concluded its World Cup preparation on a disappointing note, losing 1-2 to Chile (a non-qualifier) in a friendly match held in Orléans, France. The match was relocated from Spain after the mayor of La Línea banned it due to the Ebola epidemic in DR Congo. Chile took the lead in the 52nd minute through Lucas Cepeda's long-range strike, and Matias Sepulveda sealed the win with another long-range free kick in the 88th minute. Joris Kayembe scored a consolation goal for DR Congo in the 89th minute. The Leopards, coached by Sébastien Desabre, had previously drawn 0-0 with Denmark. Despite the loss, the team will now fly to the United States to participate in the World Cup for the first time in 52 years, beginning their campaign against Portugal on June 19.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuPreparatory game between DR Congo and Chile moved to France
The private preparatory football match between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Chile, originally scheduled for La Línea de la Concepción in Spain, has been moved to Orléans, France, due to the Spanish city's refusal to host amid the Ebola outbreak. The DR Congo Football Federation announced the change on social media. DR Congo, which is facing an Ebola epidemic, will play its World Cup group stage matches in the United States and Mexico, including a Group K opener against Portugal. The Congolese team had been training in Marbella, Spain, and will travel to France later today. Chile, which did not qualify for the World Cup, confirmed the match will be played behind closed doors. The World Health Organization recently downgraded the continental Ebola risk from 'high' to 'low', though the risk in DR Congo remains 'very high'. As of the latest WHO report, 534 cases have been confirmed, with 93 deaths.
RecordDR Congo World Cup warm-up match against Chile to be played behind closed doors due to Ebola
Democratic Republic of Congo's final World Cup warm-up match against Chile will be played behind closed doors due to concerns over an Ebola outbreak in the central African nation. The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo species of Ebola, has no available vaccine, and the World Health Organization estimates it could take up to nine months to develop one. DR Congo's squad, all of whom play for clubs outside the country, have not recently visited their homeland, though some support staff and fans have traveled from there. The team is preparing in Marbella, Spain, after a training camp in Belgium that included a 0-0 draw with Denmark. This is DR Congo's first World Cup qualification since 1974, when they competed as Zaire. They will base themselves in Houston during the tournament, opening Group K against Portugal on June 17, then facing Colombia in Guadalajara and Uzbekistan in Atlanta.
BBC SportFriendly: DR Congo to Face Chile in Orléans After Venue Change
The Democratic Republic of Congo's second World Cup preparation match against Chile has been relocated from La Línea de la Concepción in Spain to Orléans, France, after the Spanish city's mayor banned the fixture due to the Ebola epidemic affecting the African country. The match, scheduled for Tuesday, will be played behind closed doors. DR Congo, coached by Sébastien Desabre, has qualified for its first World Cup since 1974. The team, featuring players like Chancel Mbemba and Cédric Bakambu, will face Portugal on June 17, Colombia on June 24, and Uzbekistan on June 28, with all three group matches taking place in the United States.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertDR Congo's World Cup warm-up match moved to Orléans after Spanish mayor bans it over Ebola fears
The Democratic Republic of Congo's final World Cup warm-up match against Chile, originally scheduled in La Linea de la Concepcion, Spain, was banned by the Spanish mayor citing caution over the Ebola epidemic in DR Congo. The match has been relocated to Orléans, France, and will be played behind closed doors on Tuesday. DR Congo qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 52 years. The team completed a ten-day training camp in Belgium and played a 0-0 draw with Denmark. As a condition for participating in the World Cup, the DR Congo delegation must spend 21 days outside the country and be symptom-free before entering the United States or Mexico, where they will play their group matches.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuDR Congo Travels to Spain, Seeks New Venue for Friendly Against Chile
The Democratic Republic of the Congo national football team departed for Spain on Thursday, still hoping to play a scheduled friendly against Chile on June 9 despite the cancellation by authorities in La Línea de la Concepción, the original host city. Coach Sébastien Desabre stated they are actively seeking an alternative venue, even if the match must be played behind closed doors. The La Línea City Council vetoed the match, citing a lack of information about the health status of the DR Congo team amid an Ebola outbreak in the African country. The DR Congo squad had been training in Belgium ahead of the 2026 World Cup, and most players and staff reside in Europe. On Wednesday, they played a 0-0 friendly draw against Denmark, which did not qualify for the World Cup.
FútbolEbola Fears Lead Spanish Mayor to Cancel DR Congo World Cup Test Match
A World Cup friendly match between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Chile, scheduled for June 9 in La Línea de la Concepción, Spain, was canceled by the city's mayor, Juan Franco, due to health risks associated with the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo. The Congolese Football Association insists it is following all international health protocols, and Chile's team manager has offered to play the match behind closed doors to address concerns. In other World Cup news, the German national team held its first training session behind closed doors in Chicago, and a survey indicates that 41% of Germans are unlikely to watch late-night World Cup games due to time zone differences.
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