Spain cancels Congo World Cup warm-up match amid Ebola outbreak

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleA World Cup warm-up match for the Democratic Republic of Congo against Chile, scheduled to take place in Spain next week, has been cancelled by Spanish authorities. Juan Franco, the mayor of La Linea de la Concepcion, revoked authorisation for the friendly due to fears surrounding the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, despite most of the team's players and staff being based in Europe. The mayor's office stated that the decision was made because documentation provided did not fully demonstrate that there was no risk whatsoever, making it the most prudent course of action. The Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) responded by asserting the team's compliance with all health, sporting, and regulatory requirements and confirmed they are in discussions with relevant authorities and the Spanish Football Federation to find a solution. Congo coach Sebastien Desabre expressed surprise at the cancellation but remained hopeful for a resolution, suggesting the match could be played at an alternative stadium in Spain, while emphasising the team's strict adherence to Fifa’s health protocols regarding Ebola. In fullCongo World Cup warm-up match in Spain cancelled over Ebola fearsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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