DR Congo decries cancellation of friendly match against Chile in Spain over Ebola concerns

The Democratic Republic of Congo has voiced strong criticism over the cancellation of its scheduled friendly match against Chile in Spain, citing public health concerns related to the Ebola outbreak in the African nation. The match, set for June 9 in La Linea de la Concepcion, was called off by local authorities.

Mayor Juan Franco announced a decree banning the fixture, following a recommendation from local health officials who advised against staging the game due to potential health risks. This decision has drawn ire from DR Congo's government, with the Minister of Communication, Patrick Muyaya, describing it as unfair during a virtual press conference.

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the cancellation had created difficulties for the national team’s preparations.

Muyaya argued that the cancellation creates significant difficulties for the national team's preparations for upcoming international competitions, including the World Cup. He noted that the team had been training in Belgium for approximately three weeks, and while most players are not based in DR Congo, some support staff and fans may have traveled from the country. The minister suggested the decision could be interpreted as discriminatory.

The DR Congo national team is preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with this friendly intended as part of their crucial buildup. The cancellation disrupts their training regimen and raises concerns about fairness in international sporting events when public health issues arise.

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the decision could be interpreted as discriminatory.