Visa issue keeps DR Congo supporter from World Cup match in Atlanta
Michel Kuka Mboladinga will miss DR Congo’s must-win game against Uzbekistan after failing to secure a United States visa, Reuters reported.
By Lucas Ferreira · Science & Environment Writer
2 min read
Democratic Republic of Congo supporter Michel Kuka Mboladinga will miss the team’s World Cup match against Uzbekistan in Atlanta on Saturday because he was not granted a United States visa, Reuters reported. His absence removes one of DR Congo’s most recognizable fans from a game the team must win as it tries to reach the last 32.
Mboladinga, also known as Lumumba Vea, became widely known during the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco at the start of the year, according to Reuters. He drew attention by standing still through DR Congo’s matches while dressed in colorful suits carrying his country’s colors.
His matchday display is a tribute to Patrice Lumumba, DR Congo’s first prime minister, Reuters reported. Lumumba remains a revered figure in the country after he was killed by firing squad in 1961.
Mboladinga’s nickname reflects that tribute. Reuters reported that he raises an arm in a pose resembling one shown in a statue of Lumumba in Kinshasa, while fans around him sing and cheer.
The Congolese ambassador in Washington, Kapinga Yvette Ngandu, told Reuters she hoped Mboladinga would receive a visa if DR Congo reaches the knockout stage.
“I hope he brings his own brand of support to the team,” Ngandu said Saturday, according to Reuters.
Mboladinga did attend DR Congo’s previous World Cup match in Mexico, Reuters reported. He was in the stands in Guadalajara on Tuesday when DR Congo lost 1-0 to Colombia.
His trip to the tournament had already been delayed. Reuters reported that restrictions on travelers from DR Congo, imposed because of an Ebola outbreak in the country, slowed his arrival.
Government data released Friday showed confirmed Ebola cases in DR Congo had risen to 1,203, including 321 deaths, according to Reuters.
Mboladinga’s profile rose after the Africa Cup of Nations, where his stillness and resemblance to Lumumba made him a subject of attention beyond DR Congo, Reuters reported. After he returned from Morocco in January, the Congolese government gave him a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
DR Congo now faces Uzbekistan without him in the stands in Atlanta. Reuters reported that the team needs a win Saturday to keep alive its bid to advance in the World Cup.
This story draws on original reporting from Al Jazeera.