DR Congo coach hopes for ‘good showing’ at World Cup as country battles Ebola

The national football team of the Democratic Republic of Congo has arrived in Houston, United States, for the World Cup after a mandatory 21-day quarantine. Coach Sebastien Desabre expressed his hope for a "good showing" in the tournament, aiming to bring some joy to their countrymen currently battling an Ebola outbreak.

The squad's journey to the US was indirect, involving a flight from Paris after authorities insisted on the quarantine period. This measure followed the cancellation of their planned pre-World Cup training camp at home due to the Ebola outbreak, leading them to base themselves in Belgium instead.

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We adapted to the situation. We had to focus, as we have had to adapt often. That is what we did. We worked well, we played two tough friendlies and here we are. Now, it is another step for us.

Desabre, a 49-year-old Frenchman, acknowledged the long wait for the team's return to the World Cup stage since their last appearance in 1974 as Zaire. "It has been a while since the people have seen the team at the World Cup," he stated, emphasizing the honor of qualifying and the team's current objective to perform well.

DR Congo is scheduled to play their first Group K match on June 17 against Portugal in Houston. They will then travel to Guadalajara, Mexico, to face Colombia on June 23, followed by a match against Uzbekistan in Atlanta on June 28. The team's participation in the World Cup offers a moment of potential pride and distraction for a nation grappling with the ongoing Ebola crisis.

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It has been a while since the people have seen the team at the World Cup. We already had the honour of qualifying for the finals. Now, it is up to us to put up a good showing in this tournament.