DR Congo has encountered an unexpected obstacle ahead of the World Cup 2026. The friendly match against Chile, scheduled in Spain as part of the Leopards’ final preparations, will not take place in La Línea de la Concepción after the city’s mayor refused to host the event.
Local authorities reportedly based their decision on concerns linked to Ebola. The announcement has sparked reactions in both Spain and DR Congo, especially as the match formed an important part of the Congolese team’s preparation schedule before the start of the tournament.
The Congolese Football Federation must now find an alternative solution quickly to maintain its preparation plans. With the World Cup 2026 approaching, the Leopards will seek a new venue or another opponent to ensure the squad remains on track before the competition begins.
