DR Congo national team allowed to enter United States for 2026 World Cup
via SeneNews2 min read
The Democratic Republic of Congo national football team, the Leopards, has been granted entry into the United States by authorities to participate in the 2026 World Cup, despite earlier concerns related to the Ebola virus. The team's preparation had been disrupted by these health concerns. The delegation arrived in Houston from Paris around 2:30 PM local time 7:30 PM GMT and cleared airport procedures without issues, as confirmed by right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka to an AFP journalist. Wan-Bissaka stated that all team members were admitted, with no rejections. The team, dressed in suits and leopard-print bags, then proceeded to their base camp in the Texan city. The US authorities had initially mandated a 21-day isolation period for the team before their entry. The DR Congo played their final preparatory match, a closed-door game, against Chile in Orléans, France, losing 2-1. This match was originally scheduled for La Línea de la Concepción in southern Spain, but the mayor prohibited it due to Ebola concerns. The World Health Organization WHO has issued an international health alert, reporting over 500 confirmed cases and dozens of deaths from Ebola. Congolese football officials emphasized that none of the players called up by coach Sébastien Desabre reside in the DR Congo. The team, which prepared in Europe, canceled an intended training session in Kinshasa to adhere to health recommendations, according to Congolese Sports Minister Didier Budimbu Ntubuanga. The DR Congo qualifi
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Mexico City launched the 2026 World Cup with a festive atmosphere, marked by the national team's 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Azteca Stadium. The opening ceremony featured traditional and modern music, including performances by Shakira and Burna Boy, celebrating Mexico's culture. However, the event was also marred by clashes between police and protesters outside the stadium, as well as overcrowding at the fan zone. Striking teachers had used the tournament to voice their demands, leading to blockades in parts of the capital. Despite these tensions, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the situation was "under control." Thousands of fans, some arriving as early as 6:30 AM, flocked to the stadium, which was secured by a large police presence. Protesters, demanding justice for missing persons, confronted law enforcement, tearing down barriers and engaging in physical altercations. FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the trophy to the crowd, and the official World Cup anthem, "DNA," was performed by Andrea Bocelli and Ejae.
Winger Abde Ezzalzouli and defender Nayef Aguerd have been removed from the Moroccan national team for the World Cup due to injuries, just two days before their opening match against Brazil. This is a significant blow for the Atlas Lions. The FIFA updated the list of 26 players from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, showing that Ezzalzouli and Aguerd have been replaced by Angers left-winger Amine Sbaï and Al-Fateh club defender Marwane Saadane. Ezzalzouli sustained a right knee sprain during the first half of a preparatory match against Norway. Aguerd has been sidelined since March after surgery for a groin injury. The absence of Ezzalzouli, 24, is particularly impactful given his impressive form with Betis this season, where he played a key role in the team's fifth-place finish in La Liga and qualification for the Champions League. He also contributed to the club reaching the Europa League quarterfinals. Aguerd's experience as a central defender and his contribution to the 2022 World Cup semi-finalists were highly valued by the new coach, Mohamed Ouahbi. Morocco faces a shortage of experienced central defenders following the retirement of former captain Romain Saïss, the injury of Torino defender Adam Masina during the last Africa Cup of Nations, and the long unavailability of Crystal Palace defender Chadi Riad, who has just returned to competition. Fulham defender Issa Diop, who chose to represent Morocco, has joined the team.
Kylian Mbappé, captain of the French national team, shared his thoughts on the upcoming World Cup 2026 match against Senegal. Mbappé highlighted the historical and emotional significance of the encounter. He referred to Senegal as the "champion of Africa," though he humorously questioned if it was them or Morocco, stating, "We'll stay out of that." The 27-year-old player described Senegal as a "great team" and expressed enthusiasm for starting the tournament with such a significant match. He noted the shared history between France and Senegal would make the game more exciting. Mbappé emphasized the importance of a strong start for France to secure three points and alleviate any initial anxieties.