The “crazy days” of Cologne’s carnival season are approaching, so the club broke out the special kit they unveiled back in October for their match against Stuttgart. The players weren’t the only ones in festive gear, though.

Wearing old timey military style uniforms and carrying ceremonial rifles, the young mascots who escorted the players onto the pitch brought the intimidation factor that the players lacked. Although, it did eventually wear off after Cologne opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 19th minute, but went on to lose 3-1.

Elsewhere in unusual on-pitch apparel, a group of women dressed as Emirates flight attendants demonstrated their football skills at halftime of HSV v Bayern.

Ok then.