DR Congo superfan Michel “Lumumba” Kuka Mboladinga has become an AFCON 2025 sensation, standing completely motionless in the stands for three consecutive matches to honour the country’s independence hero Patrice Lumumba.
The devoted supporter first stunned viewers by holding a raised-hand pose for 115 minutes against Benin, repeated the feat without sitting once during the 90+ minutes against Senegal, and carried on the incredible display throughout Tuesday’s 3-0 victory over Botswana in Rabat.
While DR Congo wrapped up their group stage in style with a commanding win over the already-eliminated Zebras to secure progression, all eyes were once again on Mboladinga in the crowd.
His extraordinary endurance and patriotic tribute have gone viral, turning the fan into one of the tournament’s most iconic figures as the Leopards now prepare for a daunting round-of-16 clash against Group E winners Algeria.
Supporters can look forward to seeing the “living statue” in action for at least one more game – and possibly beyond if DR Congo’s run continues.