DR Congo warned by FIFA over home stadium

FIFA said that Egypt's group rivals failed to implement previous requests made by the world governing body, but have been granted a last chance.

"During the first visit, a list of requirements related to necessary improvements in infrastructure and security was established and given to the Congolese federation (FECOFA)," a FIFA spokesman said.

"During the second visit, it was seen that the improvements had not been accomplished in a satisfactory way.

"As an exceptional measure, FIFA indicated to the Congolese federation that we would be willing to have a third inspection visit in early May.

"But that we would request a written guarantee to be sent by April 4 from both the Ministry of Sports and the federation that the works described during the first FIFA inspection visit would be carried out before May."

Home Form

DR Congo, who are Egypt's toughest opponents in Group 12, are usually deadly at the Martyrs, which is known for being bullying to visiting opponents.

The Leopards have not lost a competitive home game since the 3-0 defeat to Tunisia in 2001.

However, they won't be hosting games at their capital's stadium unless they can meet FIFA's security standards.

"All stadiums used for the 2010 World Cup preliminary competition have to comply with minimum security standards, as established by FIFA," the FIFA spokesman added.

Besides African champions Egypt, DR Congo will compete with Djibouti and Malawi in the preliminary qualifiers group.