The Algerian football federation has apologized 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.
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.
Lumumba is not only seen as a hero in DR Congo, where he was assassinated in 1961 in a plot backed by Belgium, the UK and the US, but is also regarded as one of the most prominent voices in Africa's anti-colonial movement.
Following Amoura's contrite statement, the Algerian Football Association (Faf) invited Mboladinga to meet the players at their hotel in Rabat.
The superfan was unable to get to Morocco's capital, so Faf's media officer presented him with a Desert Foxes jersey with the name Lumumba printed on the back.
This meeting, attended by Congolese Sports Minister Didier Budimbu, showcased a gesture of goodwill amidst the competitive spirit of the tournament.
In the larger context, the incident reveals the delicate balance sports teams must navigate, not only in competition but also in cultural representation and respect.
Amoura expressed his respect for Congo and its team, stating that he wishes them the best and hopes they qualify for the World Cup.
