Algeria forward Mohamed Amoura has issued an apology to Democratic Republic of Congo super fan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga popularly known as “Lumumba” for mocking him while celebrating Algeria’s qualification to the quarterfinals of the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
Nkuka has gained massive recognition for striking the pose of Congo’s iconic figure Dr. Patrice Lumumba who is renowned in Africa’s fight against imperialism and colonialism.
Algeria beat DR Congo 1-0 thanks to a fine strike from Adil Boulbina in the final moments of extra time to clinch the round of 16 stage win.
After the win, the Wolfsburg player was captured on video imitating Lumumba’s infamous statuesque pose before falling to the turf indicating Congo’s fall to Algeria. Scroll down to watch Amoura’s trolling.
Amoura that is out of order mate 😂 pic.twitter.com/sy3cqTZDyy
— Dean Ammi (@AlgerianFooty) January 6, 2026
Amoura’s trolling of the very popular football fan attracted wide condemnation from football fans and the Bundesliga player has since issued an apology stating on Instagram,
“I want to make one thing clear: at that moment, I had no idea what the person or the symbol present in the stands represented. I just wanted to tease, in a lighthearted spirit, with no ill intentions or desire to provoke anyone” a section of the apology stated.
Scroll down to read the full statement from Mohamed Amoura
“The match against Congo was a big game, incredibly intense, with a lot of tension and emotion on the pitch. I want to make one thing clear: at that moment, I had no idea what the person or the symbol present in the stands represented.”
“I just wanted to tease, in a lighthearted spirit, with no ill intentions or desire to provoke anyone. I respect Congo and their team. Honestly, I wish them the best and hope they qualify for the World Cup. If my behavior was misunderstood, I sincerely regret it, as it was never my intention.”
“I’m staying focused on the pitch and on representing my country with pride. Tahia Djazair!!!”
