Eric Chelle, the coach of the Super Eagles, claims a DR Congo official utilizes Voodoo during the penalty shootout
During the tight penalty shootout in Rabat, Nigeria coach Eric Chelle has accused a DR Congo staff member of
performing "voodoo" techniques.
After a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes, the Super Eagles lost 4-3 on penalties and were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup competition.
Chelle Discusses His Anger
According to Chelle, he became enraged after witnessing a DR Congo official make numerous signals during the VAR check for a penalty.
Chelle described the event to reporters in a video that ESPN Africa shared on X.
"During all the penalty decisions, a guy from Congo did some voodoo," he stated. Each and every time. I was a little anxious after him because of this.
He said, gesturing with his hands, "Something like that," when asked to explain what he saw. I'm not sure if it's water or something similar.
Nigeria's Early Advantage and Lost Opportunities
The claim has not been independently confirmed. Frank Onyeka gave Nigeria a strong start in the third minute, but M. Elia tied the score for DR Congo in the thirty-second.
In extra time, both teams put forth a lot of effort. But as tensions in Rabat increased, neither side was able to make any progress.
How the Penalty Shootout Played Out
It was a back-and-forth shootout. Goalie Stanley Nwabali saved DR Congo's opening effort, while Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed Nigeria's early kicks.
Nigeria survived thanks to a goal from Akor Adams. However, DR Congo won 4-3 after converting their fourth penalty kick.
What the Outcome Signifies
With the victory, DR Congo advances to the intercontinental playoffs, where they will compete for a position in the expanded 48-team World Cup in Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
Nigeria will miss the World Cup for the second time in a row as a result of their defeat, which is devastating for both the squad and its supporters.
Travel to the Final
Nigeria defeated Gabon 4-1 in extra time on Thursday to advance to the final.
DR Congo secured their spot after defeating Cameroon 1-0 in their semifinal. Now, the Leopards await their playoff opponents.
The Super Eagles' hopes of winning the World Cup were dashed in Rabat.
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