DR Congo's friendly banned due to 'preventive reasons'

Most of the national teams that will take part in the upcoming World Cup prepared in a similar way. They completed the first phase of training in their home countries so that players, after a long and demanding season, could spend at least some time with family and friends, before traveling to North America to adapt to the conditions awaiting them over the next month. Only the Democratic Republic of the Congo had to follow a completely different program because of an Ebola outbreak in the country that is now causing concern around the world.

A strain of Ebola known as “Bundibugyo” has spread in the African nation, and there is currently no vaccine for it. According to some reports, it could take another nine months before one becomes available, raising serious fears that the disease could spread further. The United States, where DR Congo is scheduled to play its first World Cup match on June 17—its first appearance at the tournament in 52 years—previously announced that any non-American who has been in DR Congo within the previous three weeks will not be allowed to enter the country. As a result, the team coached by Sebastien Desabre is currently preparing in Belgium.

DR Congo cancel their World Cup preparations due to Ebola outbreak

Although none of the 26 players named in the final World Cup squad play in the domestic league or returned home after the season ended, they are not exactly welcome everywhere at the moment. Nor has it been easy for them to find willing opponents for pre-tournament friendlies. The reason lies with the coaching staff and supporters traveling with the team, many of whom arrived in Belgium from Congo. Desabre’s side will play a friendly in Liege this Wednesday, taking on Denmark. However, the final warm-up match scheduled for June 9 against Chile has been canceled. The reason is that Spanish authorities do not want to host the African side.

DR Congo waited 52 years for World Cup - now Ebola could keep their fans out

The match was supposed to be played in La Línea de la Concepcion, in southern Spain near Gibraltar. However, mayor Juan Franco signed a decree banning the game from taking place for “preventive reasons.” The decision was made following a recommendation from Andalusia’s regional health authorities. This has further complicated preparations for the Leopards, who will play their opening World Cup match on June 17 in Houston against Portugal. Chile was intended to serve as a practice opponent resembling that challenge. DR Congo will also face Colombia on June 23 in Zapopan, before concluding the group stage against Uzbekistan on June 27 in Atlanta.