Ebola outbreak leads to cancellation of DR Congo-Chile friendly in Spain

LA LINEA DE LA CONCEPCION, Spain — A June 9 friendly match between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Chile planned for La Linea de la Concepcion, Spain, has been canceled because of the Ebola outbreak, local authorities said. The city government withdrew approval for the event on health and precautionary grounds, Mayor Juan Franco said, adding that the safety of residents and fans was the priority. The match had been scheduled as part of both teams’ preparations for the 2026 World Cup. After the cancellation, the relevant football federations began looking for an alternative stadium if suitable conditions can be arranged. The Democratic Republic of Congo will compete in Group 8 at the World Cup alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan. The squad includes Theo Bongonda, who plays for Spartak Moscow.