Why did Statue Man watch DR Congo’s first match from afar?

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Statue Man Was Prevented from Attending DR Congo's Opening World Cup Match Due to Ebola-Related Quarantine Rules

Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, widely known as "Statue Man," was unable to attend DR Congo's inaugural match at the Fifa World Cup from afar. This was due to quarantine restrictions implemented because of an Ebola outbreak. The superfan, famous for his motionless cheering, missed his country's historic return to the tournament after a 50-year absence.
Quarantine Restrictions Due to Ebola Outbreak

The necessity for Mboladinga to observe from a distance stemmed directly from Ebola-related quarantine regulations. These measures, put in place to control the spread of the virus, prevented him from being present at the stadium for the team's opening fixture against Portugal.
Missed Tournament Debut

For Mboladinga, whose identity is deeply intertwined with his unwavering presence at matches, missing the team's first World Cup game in half a century represented a significant personal setback. This unusual ritual of remaining completely still throughout games, a tribute to Congolese independence hero Patrice Lumumba, has garnered him widespread recognition online.
Resumption of Trademark Pose

Despite the earlier disappointment, Mboladinga was able to make an appearance at a subsequent match against Colombia. When television cameras focused on him in the stands, he resumed his characteristic motionless pose, a moment eagerly anticipated by many football enthusiasts since DR Congo's qualification.

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Why did Statue Man watch DR Congo’s first match from afar?

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