World Cup entry controversy hits DR Congo superfan

World Cup entry controversy hits DR Congo superfan after a visa denial blocked Michel Kuka Mboladinga, known as “Lumumba Vea,” from watching the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s World Cup win over Uzbekistan. Reuters reported Saturday that he was denied entry to the United States ahead of the match, despite DR Congo not being subject to a blanket U.S. entry ban. The article notes broader 2026 FIFA World Cup scrutiny involving shifting U.S. entry policies, visa restrictions affecting Iranian officials and fans, and an incident involving FIFA-appointed Somali referee Omar Artan. Mboladinga’s visa reason was not publicly disclosed. The “Leopards” secured their first-ever World Cup knockout-stage spot with a 3-1 victory, and next face England in the Round of 32 in Atlanta on July 1.