Just hours before their World Cup 2026 debut against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal, the DR Congo faces a particularly tough situation off the pitch. For their grand return to the world’s most prestigious competition, 52 years after their only appearance, the Leopards will not have the massive support of their fans from home.
Indeed, due to the resurgence of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, U.S. authorities have denied entry to a large number of Congolese supporters. This decision deprives Sébastien Desabre’s men of valuable backing for their first group match, held in Houston, Texas.
Speaking at a press conference the day before the match, the French coach did not hide his sadness over this situation. Used to being accompanied by their supporters during travels for several years, the Congolese team feels this absence strongly as they return to the global stage.
“We have had our supporters with us for three years now. Wherever we go, we are backed by the Congolese,” Sébastien Desabre first reminded everyone. The 49-year-old coach then discussed the emotional impact of this decision on the entire squad, who hoped to share this historic moment with their loyal fans.
“In any case, we are very touched and very sad that the majority of our supporters from home, who have followed us everywhere, cannot travel. We will try to send good vibes from afar by giving them joy on the pitch,” added the Leopards’ coach.
Despite this significant absence, DR Congo can still count on the mobilization of the Congolese diaspora in the United States.
Several thousand expatriate supporters are expected in the stands to cheer on Cédric Bakambu’s teammates. This support could play a crucial role in this match against one of the tournament favorites.
🇨🇩 Sébastien Desabre touched by supporters unable to travel#beINFWC2026 pic.twitter.com/OqJoKAoujZ
— beIN SPORTS (@beinsports_FR) June 17, 2026
“This is a real source of motivation. Of course, everyone is a bit disappointed not to see the supporters based at home, but this support remains an extra motivation for us to fight on the pitch,” concluded Sébastien Desabre, determined to deliver a performance that the entire Congolese people can be proud of despite the distance.
