Congo fan who stands as living statue of independence leader Lumumba makes it to World Cup

Congo supporter Michel Nkuka Mboladinga impersonating the country’s assassinated independence hero Patrice Lumumba reacts before the World Cup Group K soccer match between Colombia and Congo in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, Mexico, Tuesday, June 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

Congo supporter Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, poses as a statue of the country’s assassinated independence hero Patrice Lumumba, reacts before the World Cup Group K soccer match between Colombia and Congo in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, Mexico, Tuesday, June 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)

Congo supporter Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, poses as a statue of the country’s assassinated independence hero Patrice Lumumba ahead of the World Cup Group K soccer match between Colombia and Congo in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, Mexico, Tuesday, June 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)

Congo supporter Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, poses dressed as the country’s assassinated independence hero Patrice Lumumba, reacts ahead of the World Cup Group K soccer match between Colombia and Congo in Zapopan, near Guadalajara, Mexico, Tuesday, June 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)

GUADALAJARA, Mexico (AP) — Congo’s famous living statue finally made his World Cup debut on Tuesday.