The Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) long-awaited return to the global football stage has been a thrilling spectacle, with their arrival in Houston at last week's World Cup sending shockwaves of excitement around the globe. As they touched down at George Bush airport on Thursday, players made a dashing impression in their sharp tuxedo suits and leopard-print sashes – a nod to the iconic 'La Sape' fashion movement that originated in Kinshasa back in the 1970s.
It's been an incredible journey for this team, who have finally broken through the 50-year barrier since competing as Zaire in 1974. Qualifying for the World Cup hasn't come without its challenges, though – the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the DRC has meant they've had to endure a 21-day isolation period imposed by US authorities after arriving from Belgium. A cancelled friendly match against Chile and disruption to training didn't help their cause either. But despite it all, the team's arrival in Houston was a smooth one, with temperature screenings upon disembarkation – and no further alarms.
Houston is clearly keen to make its mark as host, providing the DRC team with a base for the tournament and top-notch training facilities at SaberCats Stadium. The local Congolese expat community has also come out in force, with around 70 members invited to watch a training session – and plenty of photos taken alongside local kids who joined in on the fun.
Team manager Sébastien Desabre knows it's been a tough road, but remains optimistic about their chances. "We need to adapt," he said, keeping his focus firmly on the task at hand – and his players are ready for the challenge that lies ahead. Cédric Bakambu, the 35-year-old veteran forward from Real Betis who's been knocking on the World Cup door for years, received a hero's welcome from the crowd – and he'll be crucial to their chances against Portugal.
The DRC faces a daunting task in their opening match against Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo on Wednesday – but they're not intimidated. For them, just being there is a victory in itself, and they're determined to make their presence felt in this tournament. Desabre believes the pressure will bring an extra level of motivation for his team, who are ready to fight for pride on the pitch.