newzechoblogThe Democratic Republic of Congo’s remarkable FIFA World Cup journey ended in heartbreaking fashion on Wednesday, with head coach Sébastien Desabre suffering a devastating personal loss just hours after his side was knocked out by England.
Desabre watched his team come agonisingly close to producing one of the biggest shocks of the tournament before Harry Kane’s late double completed England’s 2-1 comeback victory in the Round of 32. Yet the disappointment of defeat quickly became insignificant after the French coach learned that his father had died.
The emotional news emerged shortly after the match, turning what had already been a painful evening into an unforgettable tragedy for the 49-year-old coach.
Adding an extraordinary twist to the story, Desabre’s father had reportedly predicted that DR Congo would overcome England. His confidence in his son’s team was not rewarded, as England recovered from an early setback to book their place in the Round of 16.
DR Congo had stunned the favourites by taking the lead inside the opening minutes through Brian Cipenga, leaving England and their supporters fearing an embarrassing exit. Desabre’s tactical plan frustrated Thomas Tuchel’s side for much of the contest as the African nation defended bravely while threatening on the counterattack.
Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi delivered one of the finest performances of the tournament, making a string of outstanding saves to deny Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Kane. England appeared destined for elimination as the clock ticked into the final 15 minutes.
However, world-class players often deliver when it matters most, and Kane once again proved decisive. The England captain equalised in the 75th minute before producing a stunning winning strike in the 86th minute to complete the comeback and send the Three Lions through.
While England celebrated survival, Desabre reflected proudly on his players’ efforts, insisting they had represented their country with courage and left the tournament with their heads held high.
His pride in the team’s achievements was soon overshadowed by unimaginable grief.
During the post-match media session, Desabre was informed that his father had passed away. Television cameras captured the emotional moment as the announcement was made, with the coach appearing visibly stunned before quietly responding, “Merci,” and bringing the press conference to an end. Reports indicate that he had not expected the announcement, leading to widespread sympathy from the football community.
Messages of condolence immediately poured in from supporters across the world, many praising Desabre for maintaining remarkable composure despite the devastating circumstances.
Football fans also applauded the work he has done with DR Congo over the past several years.
When Desabre accepted the national team job in 2022, few believed the Leopards could become one of Africa’s surprise packages. Under his leadership, the team developed into a disciplined, fearless unit capable of competing with some of the biggest nations in world football.
Their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended a 52-year absence from football’s biggest stage. Once there, they exceeded expectations by advancing from a difficult group after earning valuable results against higher-ranked opposition.
The tournament also marked several historic milestones for DR Congo, including their first World Cup victory, first goals and first appearance in the knockout rounds.
Although their dream ended against England, Desabre insisted there was far more pride than disappointment.
“We are more proud than disappointed,” he said after the match. “We scored five goals in the tournament, played against much higher-ranked teams and managed good results. We managed to corner England, but they reacted. That is the capacity of these big teams. It took the best striker in the world to save them.”
Those words now carry even greater emotional weight following the loss of his father.
For England, the victory keeps alive hopes of lifting the World Cup trophy, with a Round of 16 clash against Mexico awaiting. But for DR Congo, their campaign will be remembered not only for a courageous display against one of football’s traditional powers, but also for the heartbreaking events that followed.
Desabre leaves the tournament having earned admiration around the world for transforming DR Congo into genuine competitors on the global stage. Yet the football achievements will forever be intertwined with a day of profound personal sorrow.
What began as the biggest match of his coaching career ended with the greatest loss of his life.
Haruna Onimisi
newzechoblog
Ejima hassan