MADRI D — The mayor of La Linea de la Concepcion denied authorization for Congo's scheduled World Cup warmup, leaving the team scrambling for alternatives less than two weeks before the tournament begins.
The match, initially set for Tuesday in the southern Spanish city, was blocked over health concerns linked to the Ebola outbreak affecting Congo and Uganda. The World Health Organization has declared the situation a public health emergency of international concern.
The matchup already has enough history; the job is to keep the reading list shorter than the tension.
Congo's soccer federation confirmed it was in discussions with the Spanish soccer federation and relevant international bodies to find a solution. The team had already canceled a three-day preparation camp and a planned farewell event in Kinshasa, the capital.
Finding a Plan B
The timing is awkward. Congo was scheduled to face Denmark in Liege, Belgium, on Wednesday - one of its few scheduled tune-ups before Group K matches begin. Most of the squad, including coach Sébastien Desabre, are based outside the country, with the majority playing in France.
FIFA said it was monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with Congo's soccer officials to ensure the team received proper medical and security guidance.
A Long-Awaited Return
This marks Congo's first World Cup appearance since 1974, when the nation competed as Zaire. The qualification sparked celebrations nationwide after decades of conflict.
In Group K, Congo opens against Portugal in Houston on June 17, then faces Colombia in Guadalajara on June 23 before closing against Uzbekistan in Atlanta on June 27.
Finding a suitable replacement venue matters. The team needs match rhythm, and the clock is ticking.