DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre suggests playing the friendly behind closed doors after the mayor of La Linea cancels the match over Ebola health concerns. The team, already based in Belgium, adapts to restrictions ahead of their first World Cup since 1974.
The Democratic Republic of Congo national football team has offered to play their scheduled pre- World Cup friendly against Chile behind closed doors, head coach Sebastien Desabre confirmed on Tuesday.
The proposal comes after the mayor of La Linea de la Concepcion, Juan Franco, cancelled the June 9 match citing health concerns linked to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the African nation. Franco described the cancellation as a precautionary measure following advice from the Andalusia regional health authority. The friendly was intended to be a key part of DR Congo's preparation for their first World Cup appearance in 52 years.
Desabre, speaking from Belgium where the team is currently based, remained optimistic about the possibility of the match taking place. He highlighted that alternative venues or playing without spectators are viable options. We are used to adapting, and whatever happens, we will handle the situation, he stated. The team cancelled their original training camp in DR Congo after the Ebola outbreak was declared in mid-May in the eastern region.
Instead, they have established a camp in Belgium, where most of their players are based in European leagues. The squad includes notable players such as Cedric Bakambu and others who have joined from various clubs. The camp has proceeded normally, with all players arriving from Europe and local staff respecting travel deadlines. The medical team is in contact with FIFA to ensure compliance with health protocols.
The Ebola outbreak has prompted strict measures from international authorities. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention required the Congolese squad to undergo a 21-day isolation period before entering the United States for the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. DR Congo is scheduled to be based in Houston, Texas, during the tournament.
Their Group K fixtures include a match against Portugal on June 17 in Houston, followed by a game against Colombia in Guadalajara, Mexico on June 24, and a final group match against Uzbekistan in Atlanta, Georgia on June 28. The team's travel plans have been adjusted to account for the isolation period, and they will fly directly from Belgium to the US after completing the necessary quarantine.
Despite the challenges, the DR Congo squad remains focused on their World Cup campaign. Coach Desabre has expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The players are motivated by the historic opportunity to represent their country on the global stage. The team's journey is a testament to their resilience, as they overcome not only the logistical hurdles but also the shadow of a deadly disease.
The cancellation of the Chile friendly is a setback, but the team is exploring all options to maintain their preparation schedule. The outbreak, which began in the eastern province of North Kivu, has raised concerns across the globe, but the football world is rallying behind DR Congo. The nation's return to the World Cup after decades is a source of pride for fans, and the team aims to perform well despite the adversities.
As the tournament approaches, DR Congo's story is one of determination, with the players and staff committed to making the most of their opportunity. The friendly with Chile might yet be rescheduled or played behind closed doors, but the team's preparation continues unabated in Belgium. The world will watch as DR Congo takes on the best in the world, carrying the hopes of a nation
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