The Democratic Republic of Congo has cancelled a planned international friendly against Chile in Madrid, citing health concerns over an Ebola outbreak in the country. The match, scheduled for next week, was expected to be a routine preparation fixture for both sides. But Congolese officials pulled the plug on Wednesday, stating that the risk of infection was too high to justify travel and public assembly.
Sources close to the Congolese federation say the decision was taken after talks with the World Health Organisation and the Spanish health ministry. The outbreak, concentrated in a remote region of eastern DR Congo, has killed more than 1,400 people since August. While the government insists the situation is under control, many citizens fear the disease could spread.
This cancellation is a blow to Chile, who face a shortage of international opponents. But for DR Congo, prioritising public safety over sport seems the only responsible choice. The team will now focus on domestic commitments until the health situation improves.
