Football drama alert! ⚽️ Recently, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) issued a heartfelt apology to the Democratic Republic of Congo after star forward Mohamed Amoura’s post-match gesture at AFCON 2025 was widely seen as poking fun at Congolese superfan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, aka “Lumumba VEA.” 🙏
The original incident went down after Algeria edged DR Congo 1–0 in their Round of 16 clash in Morocco. In the heat of the moment, Amoura mimicked Mboladinga’s iconic one-armed salute – a tribute to Patrice Lumumba, DR Congo’s independence hero. Many fans felt it crossed the line from playful banter to disrespect.
“I was very emotional and didn’t know the meaning behind it. I apologise to Congolese fans,” Amoura wrote in a recent Instagram post. His words struck a chord, showing how quick emotions can spark big conversations about respect and cultural sensitivity.
Taking things further, an FAF delegation flew to Rabat to meet DR Congo supporters at their hotel. They handed over a signed Algeria jersey with “Lumumba VEA” stitched on the back, joined by DR Congo Sports Minister Didier Budimbu. This gesture of goodwill underlines the longstanding friendship between the two nations – and proof that football can mend fences. ✨
For young fans across South and Southeast Asia, this is a reminder: sport isn’t just about winning trophies, it’s about respect, unity and the stories that bring us together. 🌍❤️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
