Zaire 1974 World Cup Jersey

Ultra rare Zaire 1974 World Cup Jersey released by Adidas Originals in 2005 as part of it's heritage range.

This was the first time an African team qualified for the World Cup.

Zaire put in a respectable performance against Scotland in their first game, but were advised they wouldn't be paid following the 2-0 loss. The team was unmotivated for the following game and lost 9-0 to Yugoslavia. Following this defeat, the team was threatened by President Mobutu that they would be shot if they lost by four goals or more against Brazil. Trailing 3-0 in the second half; Mwepu Ilunga desperately tried to waste time and kicked the ball away after the referee blew the whistle for a Brazil free kick on the edge of the box. At the time; it was assumed that Ilunga didn't understand the rules.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ZidgbWMgg9Y&pp=ygUUemFpcmUgMTk3NCBmcmVlIGtpY2s%3D