Zaire's 1974 World Cup journey was marred by a series of remarkable events. Despite being Africa's strongest team, their campaign quickly unraveled. The team, known as the 'Leopards,' impressed in their first match against Scotland but faced financial chaos. President Mobutu's extravagant promises resulted in officials depleting the players' fund, leaving them unpaid. Outraged, the squad initially refused to play their next match. Allegedly, the Cup's organization intervened, paying the players to salvage the tournament's reputation. Reluctantly, a demoralized Zaire team faced Yugoslavia. In an unprecedented 9-0 defeat, they made World Cup history in an infamous way. The mitigating circumstances, including financial exploitation, remained secret. Facing Brazil in their last match, President Mobutu threatened the team with dire consequences if they lost 0-4. In a bizarre incident, fullback Mwepu Ilunga kicked the ball away during a free kick, viewed as ignorance by some. However, it was a deliberate time-wasting tactic born out of fear and confusion. Zaire lost 3-0, allowing the players to return home, but their reputations were shattered. Mobutu cut funding, ending Zaire's football era. The players faced shame, financial ruin, and social isolation, marking a difficult chapter in African football history. Despite the hardships, African football has since made significant strides, but the memory of Zaire's tumultuous World Cup linger.