The Democratic Republic of Congo national football team have already made headlines at the 2026 FIFA World CuP before even stepping onto the pitch. 🇨🇩🐆

The squad arrived in Houston, USA, wearing custom-designed outfits featuring bold leopard prints and African-inspired details, instantly turning heads online.

Instead of the usual travel tracksuits, the team stepped off the plane in tailored fashion pieces created by Congolese brand #JMAKXPARIS, with the designs inspired by the team's nickname, “Les Léopards”.

The outfits featured leopard patterns, cheetah brooches and elephant embroidery, with each detail representing elements of Congolese identity and heritage.

In Congolese culture, the leopard has long been viewed as a symbol of strength, power and resilience, qualities the team hopes to bring into their World Cup campaign.

The arrival look has been praised by fans for combining football, fashion and national pride, with many comparing it to the growing tradition of teams using pre-match arrivals as a way to showcase their culture on the world stage.

The tournament marks a historic moment for DR Congo, with the nation making its first World Cup appearance in 52 years.

Their return to the competition has already created excitement, and their arrival outfits have ensured they are one of the most talked-about teams before a ball has even been kicked.

DR Congo will begin their World Cup campaign against Portugal on June 17, where attention will now turn from their fashion statement to their performances on the pitch.

Residents, are these the coldest World Cup arrival fits yet? 👀

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