DR Congo fan “Lumumba” to miss crucial Jamaica clash

DR Congo national team will be without one of their most iconic supporters, Michel Koka Mboladinga—widely known for his resemblance to Patrice Lumumba—during their decisive clash against Jamaica national team in the qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The highly anticipated match, set to take place in Mexico on Tuesday, will determine which side secures qualification for the global tournament.

The passionate supporter, famously nicknamed “Lumumba,” confirmed he will miss the match due to visa complications that prevented his travel to Mexico. Despite efforts—including support from Minister of Sports, Didier Budimbu—the necessary travel documents were not secured in time.

In a statement shared on his official X account, Mboladinga expressed his sadness:

“It is with deep regret that I announce to you that I will ultimately not be in Mexico. We were in Kenya, but despite all the efforts made, particularly by the Minister of Sports, His Excellency Didier Budimbu, we were unable to obtain the visas. So we returned to Kinshasa with the fellow broadcasters on the morning of Sunday, March 29.”

Mboladinga has become a recognizable figure among DR Congo fans. He notably captured attention during the AFCON 2025 in Morocco, where he followed the team throughout the tournament until their elimination against Algeria national team.

His absence comes as the Leopards play one of their most important matches in recent years.

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