The DR Congo coach is shocked by the news of his father’s death after England’s defeat

DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre was shocked on Wednesday by the abrupt announcement of his father’s death during a post-match press conference.

The incident took place shortly after his team were heartbreakingly knocked out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by England.

Near the end of Desabre’s press conference, a media official broke news of the death.

«Thank you, but we announce that the coach has lost his father. So sincere condolences,» the media official announced in French.

Although it is not clear whether Desabre was already aware of his father’s death, the DR Congo coach appeared shocked after the announcement and immediately left the media room.

Earlier in the media interaction, Desabre expressed his pride in his team’s performance.

The Congolese side led for more than an hour in their round of 32 before Harry Kane’s double turned the result in the final 15 minutes to send DR Congo home and England through to a meeting with Mexico.

“When you represent the national team you have to leave a good image and I believe we did that,” said Desabre, whose side scored after seven minutes and defended strongly before finally being broken in the final 15 minutes.

«We are more proud than disappointed. We are of course disappointed to have to leave the World Cup, but we scored five goals in the tournament and played against much higher ranked teams and achieved good results.»

Published on July 2, 2026