A highly charged football night in Morocco turned into a deeply human moment when AFCON 2025’s most famous supporter collapsed in the stands after DR Congo’s dramatic elimination by Algeria.
The Desert Foxes won 1-0 in the round of 16 after extra time, ending Congo’s dream with a late decisive goal.
The DR Congolese fan, who gained widespread fame throughout the tournament for embodying the figure of late leader Patrice Lumumba by standing motionless like a statue for entire matches, could not bear the shock of the defeat. After more than 120 minutes of intense physical and mental battle, the final whistle and Algeria’s qualification proved too much.
Witnesses said he lost his balance and fainted in the stands, prompting a rapid intervention from security personnel who cleared a path through the crowd before transferring him to an ambulance for first aid.
The scene sparked a wave of sympathy in the stadium and across social media, where many recalled how he had become a symbol of resistance and belonging, keeping Lumumba’s legacy alive and reminding everyone that football emotion often runs far deeper than the pitch.
