DRC football squad enters US after Ebola-enforced European quarantine

The Democratic Republic of the Congo football squad arrived in the United States on Thursday, concluding a mandatory 21-day quarantine period in Europe. The team travelled from Paris to begin their campaign in the 2026 World Cup, having been required by US authorities to isolate in Belgium to comply with health protocols stemming from an Ebola outbreak in their home country.

Head coach Sebastien Desabre stated that the squad had adapted to significant logistical disruptions, which included the cancellation of a planned pre-tournament training camp in the DRC and a scheduled warm-up fixture against Chile in Spain. Desabre noted that the team had focused on preparation despite the challenges, playing two tough friendlies during their time in Europe before finalising their travel arrangements.

The arrival marks the nation’s first appearance at the World Cup since 1974, when the country competed under the name Zaire. Desabre expressed hope that the team could provide a positive outcome for citizens affected by the ongoing health crisis. “It has been a while since the people have seen the team at the World Cup,” he said, emphasising the responsibility to deliver a strong performance on the international stage.

The squad will be based in Houston for the duration of the tournament. Their Group K campaign is set to commence on June 17 with a match against Portugal. Following this fixture, the team is scheduled to travel to Guadalajara in Mexico to face Colombia on June 23, before concluding their group stage with a match against Uzbekistan in Atlanta on June 28.

The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, officially commenced on Thursday with the opening match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa. The tournament features an expanded field of 48 teams, with the United States Men’s National Team also opening its campaign on Friday against Paraguay in Inglewood, California.