FIFA World Cup 2026: Congo DR coach Sebastien Desabre's father dies before round 32 clash against England
Atlanta, July 2
Congo DR coach Sebastien Desabre received the heartbreaking news of his father's death just hours before his side's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash against England, according to Reuters.
Notably, DR Congo came agonisingly close to pulling off a major upset as they held a one-goal lead over England at half-time before England captain Harry Kane's late brace fired the Three Lions to a 2-1 win.
The news was revealed at the end of Desabre's post-match press conference, when team media officer Jerry Kalemo announced that the coach had lost his father and offered the team's sincere condolences.
"We announce that the coach has lost his father. Our sincere condolences," Jerry Kalemo said as quoted by Reuters.
The official added that Desabre's father had been unwell for some time but did not provide any further details.
Coming to the Round of 32 clash between England and Congo DR, the Three Lions came from behind to beat Congo DR 2-1 in a tense encounter, with Kane scoring twice to secure a place in the Round of 16 against co-hosts Mexico.
Congo DR stunned England early through Brian Cipenga's 7th-minute opener and held firm for much of the first half, frustrating England despite their dominance in possession. The African side went into the break leading after disciplined defending and sharp counter-attacks.
England turned the match around late in the second half after tactical changes, with Kane equalising in the 75th minute before completing his brace in the 86th minute to complete a comeback victory.
— ANI
Reader Comments
What a match! Congo almost pulled off a miracle. England's comeback was clinical but honestly, my heart goes out to the African team and their coach. Tragedy and defeat in one night is too much. Sad day for football. 😢
This news puts the game in perspective. Football is important, but family is everything. I hope Coach Desabre finds comfort in knowing his father would have been proud of the fight his team showed. CR Congo played with heart today.
I'm from India and I know we are huge football fans too. This is truly tragic. The man lost his father and still managed to guide his team to a half-time lead against England. What a professional! Respect for Sebastien Desabre. 🙏
I feel so bad for Congo. They played so well for 70 minutes and then Harry Kane happened. But honestly, the real story here is Desabre's loss. I can't even imagine focusing on a match after something like that. Heartbreaking. 😞
How did the coach even manage to be there? That's pure dedication. And Congo almost beat England! This makes the result so bittersweet. I hope the team rallies around Desabre. Football can be cruel sometimes. 🇮🇳❤️
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