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Stone-faced DR Congo fan draws attention during Colombia World Cup match

Democratic Republic of Congo's supporter Michel Kuka Mboladinga, pays tribute to Democratic Republic of Congo's late prime minister Patrice Lumumba, by remaining motionless ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group K football match between Colombia and Democratic Republic of Congo at the Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, June 23, 2026. (AFP Photo)
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Democratic Republic of Congo's supporter Michel Kuka Mboladinga, pays tribute to Democratic Republic of Congo's late prime minister Patrice Lumumba, by remaining motionless ahead of the 2026 World Cup Group K football match between Colombia and Democratic Republic of Congo at the Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, June 23, 2026. (AFP Photo)
June 24, 2026 01:16 PM GMT+03:00

The Group K second-round match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup between Colombia and the Democratic Republic of Congo was marked not only by on-field action but also by a notable presence in the stands.

Well-known supporter Michel Kuka Mboladinga, widely recognized by his nickname “Lumumba Vea,” attended the match at Guadalajara Stadium, where he once again drew significant attention from spectators and the media.

Democratic Republic of Congo's supporter Michel Kuka Mboladinga, at the 2026 World Cup Group K football match between Colombia and Democratic Republic of Congo at the Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, June 23, 2026.  (AFP Photo)
Democratic Republic of Congo's supporter Michel Kuka Mboladinga, at the 2026 World Cup Group K football match between Colombia and Democratic Republic of Congo at the Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, June 23, 2026. (AFP Photo)

Symbolic presence in the stands

Mboladinga, considered a symbolic figure among DR Congo supporters, was seen in the dedicated fan section backing the national team, known as “Les Leopards.” His presence prompted considerable interest from fans in attendance, many of whom acknowledged him as he followed the match from the stands.

Mboladinga, dressed in a suit and tie, evokes the image of Congolese political leader Patrice Lumumba, who was executed by firing squad in 1961. In stark contrast to the surrounding atmosphere of singing, chanting and celebration, he stood completely motionless throughout the match, creating a striking visual juxtaposition within the lively stadium environment.

Throughout the match, broadcast cameras repeatedly captured his reactions and presence among the DR Congo supporters.

Colombia's defender #02 Daniel Munoz celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the 2026 World Cup Group K football match between Colombia and Democratic Republic of Congo at the Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, June 23, 2026.  (AFP Photo)
Colombia's defender #02 Daniel Munoz celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the 2026 World Cup Group K football match between Colombia and Democratic Republic of Congo at the Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, June 23, 2026. (AFP Photo)

Late goal from Daniel Munoz hands Colombia victory

Colombia secured a place in the knockout stage with a 1–0 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday. The result puts Colombia on six points from two matches.

The breakthrough came in the 76th minute when Daniel Munoz scored the only goal of the game.

DR Congo remains third in the group on one point but still has a chance to qualify if they defeat Uzbekistan in their final group match.

June 24, 2026 02:40 PM GMT+03:00
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