DR Congo will face Colombia this evening at 3am British time, and it's Michel Nkuka's time to shine.
The 'living statue' that follows his nation far and wide is out in full force, ready to stand his ground until the final whistle is blown.
But who is Michel Nkuka? What is his story, and why did he decide to become the living statue?
Play our FREE match predictor and win £1k
Who is DR Congo's 'living statue' Michel Nkuka?
Michel Nkuka, known for his living statue routine, is a supporter and native of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Nkuku first appeared to showcase his routine in 2013, standing still amongst the crowd, and has done so ever since.
Often, Nkuka stands on a platform in the crowd, elevated above his fellow fans, and remains entirely motionless.
He typically wears a suit or outfit that is colour-coded to match the Democratic Republic of Congo's flag.
In interviews given to interested media, Nkuka has stated that his act is in tribute to Patrice Lumumba.
Lumumba served as the first Prime Minister of the First Congolese Republic, and had a statue erected in 2002 in Kinshasha.
The politician was assassinated in 1961, after serving as the leader of the Congolese National Movement for the three preceding years.
The DR Congo Statue fell after Algeria’s last minute goal. pic.twitter.com/nyxAUj5bsrJanuary 6, 2026
The living statue gained notoriety during 2025's Africa Cup of Nations tournament, as DR Congo made it to the Round of 16.
Hilariously, or tragically, Nkuka fell in a similar fashion to when Woody hears Andy's footsteps in Toy Story, as Algeria scored a 119th-minute winner.
The DR Congo faithful will hope for a better showing this evening, but one thing is guaranteed — as long as there is hope, the living statue will remain standing.
