Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has ignited controversy by alleging that a DR Congo staff member performed what he described as “voodoo” rituals during the decisive penalty shootout that ended Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria suffered elimination Sunday night in Rabat after a 4-3 penalty defeat following a 1-1 draw through extra time at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. This marks the second consecutive World Cup tournament the Super Eagles will miss.
In a video published by ESPN Africa, Chelle told reporters he became unsettled during a VAR review when he observed a DR Congo official repeatedly making unusual gestures. “Throughout the penalty kicks, someone from Congo was doing voodoo… continuously. That’s why I felt agitated,” the coach stated.
When pressed for details, Chelle demonstrated hand movements while suggesting, “Actions like this – I couldn’t tell if it involved water or something similar.” No independent verification of these claims currently exists.
The shootout proved dramatic from the outset. Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed Nigeria’s opening penalties, though goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali briefly revived hopes by saving DR Congo’s first attempt. Akor Adams later scored to extend the shootout, but DR Congo secured victory with their fourth successful conversion.
This result sends DR Congo to the intercontinental playoff for a final World Cup qualification spot in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Nigeria’s campaign concluded in Rabat with a heartbreaking elimination after their earlier 4-1 extra-time victory against Gabon.
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