Algeria national team gifts shirt to DR Congo fan Kuka Muladinga “Lumumba” after AFCON exit

The Algeria national team presented a special gesture on Wednesday, gifting a team shirt to Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, the DR Congo supporter known for portraying the late Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba, following DR Congo’s exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Desert Foxes defeated DR Congo 1–0 in the Round of 16 of AFCON 2025, securing qualification to the quarter-finals under head coach Vladimir Petković.

Images circulating on social media showed Michel Nkuka Mboladinga posing with a member of the Algerian delegation while receiving an Algeria shirt bearing the name “Lumumba”, in a gesture seen as one of respect and sportsmanship.

The move came in the aftermath of an incident involving Mohamed Amine Amoura, who was criticized for mocking the Congolese fan following the final whistle. Amoura later issued a public apology via his social media account, clarifying his intention.

In his statement, Amoura said:
“The match against DR Congo was very big, intense, and full of emotions on the pitch. I want to clarify something important: at that moment, I was not aware of what the character or symbol in the stands represented.”

He added:
“My intention was only to joke in a sporting spirit and with good intentions, without any desire to provoke or offend anyone. I respect DR Congo and its national team, and I sincerely wish them success and hope they qualify for the World Cup.”

Amoura concluded:
“If my action was misunderstood, I sincerely apologize, as it was never my intention. I remain focused on the pitch and on representing my country with pride. Long live Algeria.”

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