Rabat, Morocco – The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) exited the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 after a heartbreaking extra-time loss to Algeria, but one fan left an indelible mark on the tournament.

Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, nicknamed “Lumumba Vea”, became a viral sensation for his extraordinary tribute to DR Congo’s independence hero Patrice Lumumba, standing motionless during every game of the tournament in a pose reminiscent of Lumumba’s memorial statue in Kinshasa.

“The fan who went viral for standing motionless through the full match becomes an AFCON symbol of pride, memory, and resilience,” one supporter wrote on social media.

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The Lumumba Tribute

Dressed in bright-colored suits, Mboladinga captured the attention of thousands of fans in the stadium. At the start of every match, he would climb onto his pedestal, raise his right arm, and remain perfectly still throughout the game, paying homage to Lumumba’s fight for Congo’s independence.

Even after DR Congo’s heartbreaking 119th-minute defeat by Algeria, Mboladinga stayed composed, removed his glasses, wiped away tears, and finally melted back into the crowd at the match’s conclusion.

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Controversy and Reconciliation

After DR Congo’s elimination, Algerian forward Mohamed Amoura drew criticism for mocking Mboladinga’s pose during his goal celebration. Social media called for an apology, noting the historic significance of the tribute.

Amoura later posted on social media:

“I wasn’t aware of the meaning and history of the gesture. I simply wanted to tease, in a good-natured way, without any ill intent. I respect Congo and its team.”

To further make amends, the Algerian Football Association invited Mboladinga to meet the Algerian players at their hotel, presenting him with a personalized team shirt featuring Lumumba’s name on the back.

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Legacy Beyond the Tournament

Although DR Congo is currently ranked 56th in FIFA’s world rankings, Mboladinga’s actions have cemented him as a symbol of national pride and historical memory, earning respect from fans across Africa and the world. The team still has a chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup via the inter-confederation playoff final on March 31.

“He [Mboladinga] is bringing visibility to a historic figure who fought for Congo’s independence and stood in solidarity with the Algerian revolution,” wrote sports journalist Leyla Hamed.