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DR Congo-Chile Friendly match to Go Ahead in Malaga
DR Congo’s friendly against Chile is set for Malaga after a Spanish mayor blocked the original venue over health concerns.
Published:
June 5, 2026 at 10:45:46 AM
Modified:
June 5, 2026 at 11:04:43 AM
DR Congo striker Cédric Bakambu poses in the Leopards’ new light-blue kit ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
(Photo: FECOFA/Sports Illustrated)
DR Congo’s final World Cup warm-up against Chile is set to go ahead in Malaga on Tuesday, June 9, after the fixture was moved from its original venue in Spain following local health concerns.
The match had initially been scheduled in La Línea de la Concepción, near Gibraltar, before mayor Juan Franco issued a decree blocking the game. The decision followed health guidance linked to concerns over the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, a development also reported earlier.
Despite the disruption, Congolese officials have sought to reassure supporters that health measures are in place for the delegation.
The Leopards arrived in Malaga on Thursday, June 4, with the match now expected to be played behind closed doors.
The Chile fixture is an important final test for DR Congo as the team continues its World Cup preparations. Earlier reporting by Radio Okapi had listed Chile as one of two key friendly opponents for the Leopards ahead of the tournament.
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