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When the Democratic Republic of Congo defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 in Atlanta on Saturday evening, it marked a landmark occasion in the history of the Leopards.

Competing in only their second-ever World Cup, following their politically charged 1974 appearance when the nation was still known as Zaire, the three points secured by Sébastien Desabre’s team ensured their qualification from Group K and a place in the knockout stage for the first time, where they will face England.

The victory set off jubilant celebrations among Congolese fans in the stands — but their most celebrated supporter was notably absent.

Michel Kuka Mboladinga became an internet sensation when he attended DR Congo’s 1-0 loss to Colombia in Guadalajara last Wednesday.

Clad in a vivid red jacket and tie, paired with a yellow shirt and blue trousers — colours representing his nation’s flag — Mboladinga’s appearance also paid homage to his country’s first Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba. During matches, he stands motionless throughout, as a tribute to Lumumba, who was assassinated in 1961.

This distinctive act has earned him the nickname ‘Lumumba Vea’. Mboladinga also raises his arm in a gesture mirroring the iconic statue of Lumumba in Kinshasa, offering a striking contrast to the lively singing and dancing of his fellow fans around him.

While Mboladinga managed to witness his team’s match in Mexico, reports from Reuters indicate that he was denied a visa to enter the United States, preventing him from attending the historic fixture where DR Congo sealed their place in the last-32 of the World Cup.

He had also missed the Leopards’ opening Group K encounter — the 1-1 draw against Portugal — due to being in quarantine following the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo.

The US authorities have not disclosed the reasons for rejecting Mboladinga’s visa application, adhering to privacy regulations that prohibit public comment on individual cases.

With a following of over 280,000 on Instagram and serving as an official ambassador for the Congolese Football Federation, Mboladinga remains one of the most recognisable faces among DR Congo’s supporters. However, as of now, he will be unable to attend the much-anticipated clash against England.

“Good luck to our national team. History is being made once again. May God bless the DRC,” he posted on Instagram, sharing a photograph of himself in his signature pose.

Fans worldwide have expressed solidarity with Mboladinga, with fellow Congolese supporters even imitating his trademark stance during the victory over Uzbekistan.

The ongoing Ebola outbreak in DR Congo has led to stricter health screenings, quarantine protocols and delays in visa processing, complicating international travel for many citizens.