Brussels, July 15, 2024 – The event commemorating the 50th anniversary of the participation of the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Football World Cup in Germany, in 1974, recently took place in Dortmund, in an atmosphere charged with emotions and memories. Organized by the company Benny&Cie in collaboration with six other Congolese associations, these festivities were of particular importance for the former players and their families present.
The festivities began with the presentation of medals of merit to former Mundialists, a symbolic gesture honoring their historic contribution to the Congolese national team. The presence of former Leopards such as Kibonge Mafu, Adelard Mayanga and Bwanga marked a highlight, while the sons of iconic players such as Kakoko and Mwepu received the medals in the name of their fathers, testifying to the sporting heritage passed down from generation to generation.
An exhibition football match between Congolese and German veterans brought a touch of friendly competition to the event, providing spectators with a lively and nostalgic spectacle. The victory of the Congolese veterans by 9 goals to 3 thrilled the supporters and strengthened the links between the former players, whatever their camp.
The visit to the emblematic places where the Leopards wrote their history in 1974, notably the Dortmund stadium and the German Football Museum, allowed the delegation to relive the great times of the competition and to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of the Global. Despite the absence of five former Leopards resident in the DRC for administrative reasons, the spirit of solidarity and camaraderie prevailed throughout the event.
The closing of the festivities at the hotel which hosted the Leopards during the 1974 World Cup offered a moment of conviviality to the participants, who passionately followed the Euro 2024 final between Spain and England. This celebration of the glorious past of the Congolese national team recalled the importance of sport as a vector of unity and national pride.