DR Congo's famed "living statue" supporter, Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, made his long-awaited World Cup debut on Tuesday, witnessing his team's narrow 1-0 defeat against Colombia in Guadalajara. Mboladinga, who gained international recognition during the Africa Cup of Nations for his motionless portrayal of Congo's assassinated independence leader Patrice Lumumba, was present at Estadio Akron for the Group K clash.
He had missed DR Congo's surprising 1-1 opening draw against Portugal due to Ebola quarantine requirements. Lumumba Vea, as the supporter is known for his resemblance to the slain leader, took his place on a pedestal behind the Congo bench about an hour before kickoff. He wore a bright red jacket, yellow shirt, and blue pants, remaining still with his right arm raised once the game began.
Despite Mboladinga's presence, the Congolese team, known as the Leopards, could not replicate their previous performance. Colombia secured a late victory when Daniel Munoz scored in the 76th minute. The goal came after DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi made five crucial saves in the initial 20 minutes. Mpasi was unable to stop Munoz's left-footed strike from inside the area, which deflected off a defender.
DR Congo's first World Cup appearance in 52 years began with a notable 1-1 draw against a team featuring Cristiano Ronaldo. In the current Group K standings, Colombia leads with six points from two matches, followed by Portugal with four points, and DR Congo with one point. Portugal routed Uzbekistan 5-0 earlier on Tuesday, with Ronaldo scoring twice.
Colombia needs at least a draw against Portugal in their upcoming match on Saturday to secure the group's top position. This result would also ensure Portugal advances to the knockout stage.
Mboladinga's unique fan dedication first captured attention at the Africa Cup of Nations. His act involves posing as a statue of Lumumba on a pedestal, standing still with his right hand raised throughout matches. Patrice Lumumba was a pivotal figure in Congo's independence from Belgium in 1960, becoming the nation's first prime minister. His tenure was cut short by assassination within a year amidst a separatist movement. A Belgian court recently ordered a trial for a former diplomat suspected of involvement in Lumumba's killing, charging him with "participation in war crimes" for his role in Lumumba's "unlawful detention and transfer."