DR Congo head coach Sebastien Desabre has been praised for his ‘dignity and devotion’ to the national team after the death of his father was announced following their World Cup last-32 defeat by England.
Desabre’s side had threatened to produce one of the biggest shocks of the tournament after taking an early 1-0 lead through Brian Cipenga.
England required a late Harry Kane brace to send them through to the last-16 at DR Congo’s expense.
Desabre had praised his team’s efforts in the match and during their World Cup campaign in his post-match press conference.
The press conference ended in unexpected fashion, as after confirming there were no further questions for Desabre, the DR Congo press officer then revealed the loss of his father.
‘Thank you but we are announcing that the coach has lost his father,’ the press officer announced in French. ‘So sincere condolences.’
DR Congo head coach Sebastien Desabre appeared stunned after a press officer announced the death of his father in a post-match press conference
Desabre had reportedly been informed prior to DR Congo’s last-32 tie against England, which ended in a 2-1 defeat
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The public announcement to the media appeared to surprise Desabre, who looked towards the press officer in apparent astonishment.
Desabre ended the press conference by thanking the journalists, before glancing again to the press officer as they stood up to leave.
Congolese journalist Stanis Bujakera Tshiamala reported following the press conference that Desabre had been informed of the loss of a ‘very close family member’ prior to the match.
Desabre was reportedly determined to lead the team in the last-32 tie, with the Frenchman being praised for his ‘devotion to Congo’.
Didier Budimbu Ntubuanga, DR Congo’s Minister of Sport, offered his condolences on social media to Desabre and praised his dignity during the World Cup.
‘Deeply touched by the grief that strikes our coach Sébastien Desabre,’ he wrote.
‘Even in the ordeal, his dignity and professional demeanor throughout the competition command the admiration of the entire Nation.
‘I extend my most heartfelt condolences to him and his loved ones. Much courage, coach.’
Desabre was thanked for his devotion to DR Congo after he was reportedly determined to lead the team in the match despite the loss of his father
Desabre had focused on the performance of his team during his press conference and praised their display against England, who he described as ‘one of the best teams in the world’.
‘We’re disappointed because we believed in it,’ Desabre said.
‘Perhaps we lacked a bit of experience towards the end, but that’s football. We learn, we continue to progress, and we continue on our path calmly.
‘We fought like the Congolese people. We played good football today against one of the best teams in the world. That’s what we’ll remember.
‘In Congo, there are good players who play with an impeccable attitude, and that’s important.’
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