Zaire were surprise qualifiers for the 1974 World Cup in West Germany, the first black African nation to qualify for a World Cup finals. There was enormous pressure on their shoulders, with the country’s leader, Mobutu Sese Seko informing the players- via his armed guards – that should they lose by four goals or more to holders Brazil in their final group match, there would be dire consequences.
Perhaps understandable then, the way Zaire defender Mwepu Ilunga carried on when faced with a free kick 25 yards from his goal. As the Brazilians, including Jairzinho, lined up to send the ball goalwards, Mwepu burst from the defensive wall and simply lumped the ball upfield. The Brazilians were gobsmacked, the commentator was almost laughing, and the referee issued a yellow card.
Mwepu had the last laugh though, as his side only lost by three goals, and the team were allowed to return home. Not so much with their heads held high, but at least they still had them.
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