DR Congo coach learns of father's death after England loss

The death of the father of Democratic Republic of Congo coach Sébastien Desabre was announced publicly following his team's elimination from the World Cup, a moment that appeared to surprise the Frenchman. The announcement came at the conclusion of a post-match press conference in Atlanta on Wednesday, after Congo's 2-1 loss to England in the round of 16.

Desabre had just finished answering questions about the match when the team's press officer, Jerry Kalemo Ngoy, closed the session by stating in French, "the coach has lost his father. Sincere condolences." Video showed Desabre looking to his right with an expression of surprise before quickly regaining his composure and responding, "merci," French for thank you.

Contrary to initial reports, an official clarified that Desabre had been informed of his father's passing hours before the match kicked off. The official said Desabre's father had been ill for some time. Kalemo Ngoy confirmed on Thursday that he had known of the death before the game.

The somber moment overshadowed the end of a historic World Cup run for Congo. Under Desabre's four-year tenure, the team qualified for its first World Cup since 1974 and reached the...