The Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal between Morocco and Cameroon at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat produced a striking scene in the stands as home fans paid tribute to a famous DR Congo supporter.
The stadium was packed, with Moroccan fans turning out in huge numbers to push their team toward the semifinals and a renewed dream of reclaiming the continental title last won in 1976.
Amid the colour and noise, some Morocco supporters held up a large picture of Congolese fan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, who has become one of the most recognisable faces of this tournament. Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, known by the nickname “Lumumba”, wears a suit in the colours of the DR Congo flag and stands motionless like a statue, imitating late independence leader Patrice Lumumba as he cheers on DR Congo.
The emotional image of this fan went viral after cameras captured his sorrowful reaction to DR Congo’s exit against Algeria in the round of 16.
Moroccan fans’ gesture came days after the controversial celebration of Algeria forward Mohamed Amoura, who copied the supporter’s pose following Algeria’s win, a move many interpreted as mocking the Congolese fan.
