Nigeria Beat Algeria to Reach AFCON Semi-Finals as Akor Adams Pays Tribute to ‘Lumumba’ Superfan
Nigeria have secured a place in the semi-finals of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco following a commanding quarter-final victory over Algeria.
The Super Eagles produced an assured performance on Saturday evening, defeating the Desert Foxes 2–0 to book a high-stakes semi-final date. PulseNets learnt that the win marked one of Nigeria’s most composed outings at the tournament so far, combining tactical discipline with attacking efficiency.
Eric Chelle’s side controlled large spells of the first half, pinning Algeria back and dictating the tempo, but clear-cut chances proved difficult to convert before the interval. The closest Nigeria came to breaking the deadlock saw Calvin Bassey’s goal-bound effort dramatically cleared off the line, a moment that briefly stunned the Moroccan crowd.
Nigeria’s persistence eventually paid off after the restart. Victor Osimhen rose highest to meet a precise cross from Bruno Onyemaechi, heading home to give the three-time African champions a deserved lead. Moments later, Osimhen turned provider, laying the ball into the path of Akor Adams, who calmly doubled Nigeria’s advantage to seal the result.
With the win, the Super Eagles will now face tournament hosts Morocco for a place in the AFCON final, a clash already generating massive anticipation across the continent.
Akor Adams Honours DR Congo ‘Lumumba’ Superfan
Beyond the result, Saturday’s quarter-final also carried a powerful moment of symbolism. PulseNets reported that Super Eagles forward Akor Adams paid tribute on the pitch to a Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) supporter who became a viral figure earlier in the tournament.
The fan, Michel Nkuka Mboladinga — widely known as “Lumumba Vea” — gained global attention for his striking tribute to Congolese independence hero Patrice Lumumba. Throughout DR Congo’s matches at AFCON 2025, he stood motionless with his right arm raised, a pose inspired by the iconic Lumumba statue in Kinshasa. The gesture quickly became one of the tournament’s most recognisable cultural symbols.
However, DR Congo’s dramatic last-16 exit to Algeria brought controversy. After the final whistle, Algerian forward Mohamed Amoura appeared to mimic the fan’s statue-like stance before falling to the ground in celebration — an act many observers interpreted as mockery. The incident sparked widespread debate online and across African football circles.
Amoura later issued a public apology, explaining that he was unaware of the deeper meaning behind the pose and had intended no disrespect. PulseNets learnt that the Algerian squad later met with Mboladinga and presented him with a national team jersey bearing the name “Lumumba” on the back, a move aimed at restoring goodwill.
A Gesture of Unity on the AFCON Stage
In Nigeria’s quarter-final win over Algeria, Akor Adams echoed Mboladinga’s iconic pose after scoring, standing still with his arm raised in homage. Images of the celebration circulated rapidly on social media, with fans and analysts praising the Super Eagles striker for transforming a previously tense episode into a moment of respect and unity.
Observers told PulseNets that the gesture resonated deeply with supporters across Africa, reinforcing football’s ability to bridge cultures and heal divisions beyond the pitch.
Also Read: Osimhen–Lookman Rift Resolved as Super Eagles Reunite Ahead of AFCON Quarterfinal
Despite DR Congo’s elimination, Mboladinga’s presence has emerged as one of AFCON 2025’s most enduring stories. Reports obtained by PulseNets indicate that Congolese authorities have since honoured him back home, with the government presenting him with a vehicle in recognition of his role in uplifting national pride during the tournament.
As AFCON 2025 heads into its decisive stages, the episode has sparked broader reflection on cultural awareness, respect, and the powerful intersection between football and identity — a reminder that the beautiful game often tells stories far greater than the final scoreline.
