World Cup 2026: DR Congo rocked as Chile seal late win in disrupted warm-up friendly

A disrupted World Cup preparation for the Democratic Republic of Congo ended in further frustration on Tuesday night after a 2-1 defeat to Chile in a behind-closed-doors friendly in Orleans, a match overshadowed by health-related relocation and tightened travel scrutiny ahead of the tournament.

Originally scheduled for Cadiz, the fixture was moved to France and staged without spectators after authorities in the Spanish city called it off, citing public health concerns linked to an Ebola outbreak in central Africa.

The switch added another layer of instability to Congo’s build-up, with logistical uncertainty continuing to hang over their World Cup campaign.

With United States officials also insisting that all players and staff must have spent at least 21 days outside the Democratic Republic of Congo and remained symptom-free before entry, the squad’s preparations have been under constant external pressure. Despite the off-field disruption, the match offered a final competitive test before departure to their tournament base in Houston on Thursday.

Dario Osorio strikes after the break

After a cagey and goalless first half, Chile broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute through Dario Osorio, who finished clinically to reward a sustained spell of pressure. The goal shifted momentum decisively, forcing Congo to chase the game in increasingly stretched phases as the match opened up.

Chile controlled possession for long spells thereafter, dictating tempo and limiting the African side’s attacking rhythm. The breakthrough exposed gaps in Congo’s defensive shape that would eventually prove costly as the match wore on.

Matias Sepulveda extends Chile’s control

The South American side doubled their advantage four minutes from time when Matias Sepulveda added a second goal, capitalising on late defensive fatigue. The strike appeared to settle the contest, underlining Chile’s superior composure in key moments and their ability to punish lapses under pressure.

Congo, however, refused to fold in the closing stages, pushing forward in search of a response despite the odds and the subdued environment of an empty stadium.

Joris Kayembe provides late response

Their persistence was rewarded in the 88th minute when Joris Kayembe pulled one back, offering a brief lift before the final whistle confirmed defeat.

The goal served as a small consolation in an otherwise difficult evening, highlighting moments of resilience amid a challenging preparation period.

Congo now shift focus to their World Cup base in Houston, where they are due to arrive on Thursday ahead of their Group K opener against Portugal, followed by meetings with Colombia in Guadalajara and Uzbekistan in Atlanta.