Leopards change their spots!

The 1974 Zaire squad had some fabulous nicknames. Mulumba Ndaye's, for example, was 'Volvo' whilst fellow striker Kembo Uba Kembo was known as 'Monsieur But' (Mr Goal). Midfielder Mafuila Mavuba was referred to as 'The Black Scorcerer' or 'The Wizard,' with Adealard Mayanga Maku also having two nicknames: 'The Brazilian' and 'Goodyear' (after the tyres). As Mayanga himself explains, the latter came about because of his 'all-terrain stamina!'

The nickname of Zaire/DR Congo's national team has fluctuated throughout its history. Between 1960 and 1965 they were called the 'Lions,' changing to the famous 'Leopards' in the latter year. Following the ousting of President Mobutu in 1997, they reverted back to the 'Simbas' (Swahili for 'lions'). However, in an attempt to regain the glories of that era's side, they become the 'Leopards' once again in February 2006.