Algeria Offers Apology to Congolese Superfan After Faux Pas During Afcon

Fri Jan 09 2026 14:20:20 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Algerian football federation has made a public apology to a Congolese superfan, Michael Nkuka Mboladinga, who was mocked by an Algerian player during the Africa Cup of Nations.

In a heartfelt gesture, the Algerian Football Association has apologized to Congolese superfan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, who received backlash after Algerian player Mohamed Amine Amoura mimicked him during a recent match in the Africa Cup of Nations. The superfan is known for honoring Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba, and an invitation was extended for him to meet with the Algerian team. The incident reflects cultural sensitivities surrounding sports and national icons.

The Algerian football federation has apologised to a Congolese superfan who has become one of the stars of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) being held in Morocco.

Michel Nkuka Mboladinga has supported the Democratic Republic of Congo by dressing up as the country's revered first leader Patrice Lumumba and remaining stock-still throughout every match.

He stood on a pedestal with his right arm raised - just like Lumumba's famous statue in DR Congo's capital, Kinshasa - as fans around him cheered.

But after Algeria beat the Leopards on Tuesday, Algerian player Mohamed Amine Amoura faced a backlash for mimicking Mboladinga and falling to the ground as though the statue had been knocked over.

This prompted the 25-year-old forward to post an apology on Instagram, saying his gesture was not intended to disrespect DR Congo.

The Desert Foxes had looked like they were heading to penalties before Adil Boulbina scored in the 119th minute, securing a place in the quarter-finals.

Amoura stated, At that moment, I wasn't aware of what the person or symbol in the stands represented. I simply wanted to joke around, in a good-natured way, without any ill intent or desire to provoke anyone.

Following Amoura's contrite statement, the Algerian Football Association (Faf) invited Mboladinga to meet the players in Rabat. The superfan was unable to travel, so a Faf media officer arranged a meeting in Casablanca, where Mboladinga received a personalized jersey from Algeria.

This event highlighted a growing camaraderie as Amoura expressed his respect for the Congolese team, wishing them the best as they aim for qualification in the upcoming World Cup.

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