The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national football team has finally arrived in the United States to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a challenging three-week quarantine in Europe due to an Ebola outbreak in their home country. US authorities had strictly insisted that the delegation complete a 21-day isolation period in a third country before being granted entry for the tournament.
The squad flew into Houston from Paris on Thursday, marking the end of a logistical ordeal that saw them based in Belgium for their final preparations. Head coach Sebastien Desabre expressed his relief and determination, stating that he hopes the team will provide a "good showing" for their compatriots back home, who are currently struggling with the 17th Ebola outbreak since the virus was first identified in 1976. "It has been a while since the people have seen the team at the World Cup," Desabre said. "We already had the honour of qualifying for the finals. Now, it is up to us to put up a good showing."
The path to the 2026 World Cup has been anything but smooth for the Leopards. After qualifying for their first tournament since the 1974 edition, the team was forced to cancel a home training camp, and their preparation was further disrupted when a high-profile warm-up match against Chile in Spain was canceled due to international health concerns. Despite these setbacks, the team maintained focus, utilizing their time in Belgium to play two intense friendlies.
The DRC is now based in Houston, where they are scheduled to play their opening Group K match against Portugal on June 17. Following the opener, the team will travel to Guadalajara, Mexico, to face Colombia on June 23, before concluding their group stage matches against Uzbekistan in Atlanta on June 28.
For the DRC, this World Cup represents more than just sporting success; it is a moment of national pride. Their ability to persevere through extreme health restrictions and travel hurdles has drawn widespread attention. As the team settles into Houston, all eyes will be on whether their resilience off the pitch will translate into competitive performances on it as they seek to make an impact in their long-awaited return to the global stage.
