Historic Portugal draw brings joy to Ebola-stricken DRC

THE Democratic Republic of Congo’s first-ever World Cup point on Wednesday gave their compatriots in Bunia, the epicentre of the Ebola outbreak, a rare chance to celebrate.

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Yoane Wissa’s goal in Houston — also a first in his nation’s short World Cup history — secured a point against a star-studded Portugal side who included all-time great Cristiano Ronaldo.

DRC’s French coach Sébastien Desabre said he was proud of his players “because they represented the Congo in a very positive way and the entire country deserves it”.

That was certainly reflected in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province in the northeast of the country, which has borne the brunt of the DR Congo's 17th outbreak of the haemorrhagic fever.

The virus has infected 837 people and resulted in 196 deaths in DRC and Uganda, according to the latest official figures. In Bunia there have been 215 confirmed cases, though testing capacity is limited.

Watching the World Cup on the few functioning TV sets available provided some respite there.

The goal by Wissa, who plays for English Premier League side Newcastle, sparked scenes of undiluted joy.