APR FC head coach Abderrahman Taleb says the club will not put the health and safety of its players at risk by travelling to the Democratic Republic of Congo for their CAF Champions League preliminary-round tie against Les Aigles du Congo.

The Rwandan champions were drawn against Les Aigles du Congo in the preliminary round of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League, with the first leg originally scheduled to be played in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

However, concerns have emerged over the proposed trip, particularly because of the ongoing Ebola outbreak and the security situation in parts of the country.

Speaking after APR FC’s 2-1 friendly victory over Etincelles FC, Taleb made it clear that player safety remains the club’s priority.

“As you know, there is Ebola in Congo. We cannot put our players at risk. We cannot travel to a country where there is a disease that could create health problems for our players.”

The coach also pointed to the security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, saying APR FC is already engaging with CAF over the possibility of playing the match at a neutral venue.

“There is also the issue of war. We are looking at the situation with CAF to see if we can play at a neutral venue. We will try our luck. We have the desire and we are ready.”

CAF asked to consider a neutral venue

APR FC has formally asked the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to consider moving the match away from the Democratic Republic of Congo because of the security and health concerns.

The issue comes at a sensitive time, with the DRC still dealing with an outbreak of Bundibugyo virus disease, an Ebola species confirmed by health authorities in May 2026. The World Health Organization has described the outbreak as occurring in a challenging environment marked by insecurity and significant population movement.

The health situation has therefore become an important consideration for APR FC as the club prepares for its continental campaign.

APR FC awaiting CAF’s decision

For now, APR FC remain focused on preparing for their CAF Champions League campaign while waiting for CAF’s position on the venue.

The club’s preference is understood to be a neutral stadium where both teams can compete under safer conditions.

The first-leg fixture was initially scheduled for 4–6 August 2026, with the return leg planned for 11–13 August 2026. Any change to the venue or schedule will depend on CAF’s final decision.