The DR Congo national football team, nicknamed Les Léopards, were the first Sub-Saharan African side at a FIFA World Cup (1974, as Zaire) and won the Africa Cup of Nations twice (1968, 1974). They’ve also claimed two African Nations Championship titles (2009, 2016) and currently compete under coach Sébastien Desabre. The Leopards remain a respected force in African football despite challenges back home, and continue their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with pride.