DR Congo’s final World Cup warm-up match against Chile has been moved behind closed doors in Orleans, France, on Tuesday, following concerns over the ongoing Ebola outbreak in their home nation. The decision comes after the game was relocated from Cadiz, Spain, due to a precautionary decree by the local mayor.
Background to the Relocation
The match was initially scheduled to be played in Cadiz, Spain. However, the local authorities intervened, citing public health concerns related to the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo. This led to the game being moved to Orleans, France, a decision that underscores the sensitive nature of international sporting events during health crises.
World Cup Entry Requirements
Host nation the United States has stringent entry requirements for teams participating in the World Cup. All individuals must spend 21 days outside DR Congo and remain symptom-free before being allowed entry. This policy highlights the global efforts to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Squad’s Preparation and Travel
BBC Sport understands that while DR Congo’s players, all of whom play for clubs outside the country, have not recently visited their homeland, some support staff and fans may have done so. The squad is currently finalising their preparations in Marbella, Spain, after a training camp in Belgium which included a 0-0 draw against Denmark.
DR Congo’s Return to the World Cup
This marks DR Congo’s first appearance in the World Cup since 1974, when they competed as Zaire. Their previous tournament experience ended with them finishing at the bottom of their group after losing to Scotland, Brazil, and Yugoslavia.
Tournament Schedule and Location
The team plans to be based in Houston for the duration of the tournament. Their opening match in Group K is scheduled for June 17th against Portugal in Houston. Following this, they are set to face Colombia in Guadalajara, Mexico, and conclude their group stage matches against Uzbekistan in Atlanta, USA.
The Ebola Outbreak
The current Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo is caused by a rare species known as Bundibugyo. This particular strain does not currently have a vaccine, and the World Health Organisation estimates that a jab could take up to nine months to develop. This context adds a layer of complexity and concern to the team’s international participation.
Future Watch
The implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate match. Teams and organizers will be closely monitoring the evolving health situation in DR Congo and adhering to international health protocols. The effectiveness of these measures in preventing the spread of the virus while allowing international competition to proceed will be a key factor to watch in the lead-up to and during the World Cup.
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