World Cup: Why DR Congo's famous statue fan won't be available for opener

DR Congo's iconic fan Lumumba Vea will miss the World Cup opener against Portugal due to travel clearance delays. Known for standing motionless during matches as a tribute to independence hero Patrice Lumumba, he gained fame during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. He is expected to join the team later after the country's president intervened to expedite his visa. The Leopards will feel his absence as they face Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal.