TP Mazembe players attracted attention before their CAF Champions League preliminary-round second-leg clash against Medeama on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in the Democratic Republic of Congo after raising their right hands instead of taking part in the traditional pre-match handshake.
 
While the Medeama players shook hands with the officials, the Mazembe players stood in line and raised their right arms.
 
But why do they do this?
 
The gesture is a TP Mazembe tradition, performed before matches as a symbol of unity and solidarity with the club’s supporters, particularly the Badiangwenas.

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It forms part of the club’s pre-match ritual and is closely associated with the atmosphere created by the supporters before kickoff.
 
Rather than being a gesture directed at Medeama, it is a way for the Mazembe players to identify with their club and its fan base before the game.
 
The ritual has become a recognisable part of Mazembe’s matchday identity, which explains why the players continue to perform it even during the formal pre-match ceremony.
 
Therefore, the players raising their hands while the Medeama team completed the handshake should not be viewed as a deliberate snub or sign of disrespect.
 
It is simply a club tradition that reflects Mazembe’s identity and connection with its supporters.
 
The unusual scene has nevertheless attracted attention because it differs from the standard handshake protocol normally seen before CAF matches.

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