Congo DR's historic FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a defeat to England, but the heartbreak deepened when head coach Sebastien Desabre learnt of his father's death during the post-match press conference. The media briefing was immediately ended as Desabre, visibly stunned, thanked reporters and quietly walked away after receiving the devastating news.

Atlanta: Just hours after the painful FIFA World Cup 2026 defeat to England, head coach of Congo DR Sebastien Desabre has suffered an even greater personal loss as he learnt about the death of his father during the press conference.

Congo had never played a World Cup knockout game before, yet they made a dream start after seven minutes with Cipenga’s first-ever international goal. But Harry Kane equalised, with the England skipper then blasting a brilliant winner in a dramatic turnaround to set a Round of 16 meeting with co-hosts Mexico.

After the heartbreaking loss, when Desabre was addressing the media, the family bereavement was confirmed when a media officer said in French, "Thank you, but we are announcing that the coach has lost his father. Sincere condolences.” The press conference was then terminated.

Desabre, who had initially been answering questions about the match, looked across in complete disbelief before quietly replying, “Thank you" and immediately standing up and walking out of the press conference.