By Victor Onajero Akpososo
Nigeria’s head coach, Éric Chelle, has alleged that a member of the DR Congo technical crew engaged in “voodoo” practices during the tense penalty shootout that decided the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final.
Chelle made the remark while addressing journalists after Nigeria’s dramatic defeat, insisting that the conduct of the unnamed Congolese official was “provocative” and contributed to the heated confrontation seen at the end of the match.
The Super Eagles had battled DR Congo to a stalemate in regulation time before losing 4–3 on penalties, a result that ended Nigeria’s hopes of securing a World Cup ticket.
The shootout was marked by intense emotions on both sides, with Chelle visibly furious as officials from both teams exchanged words.
The Nigerian coach said his reaction stemmed from what he believed were attempts to distract his players.
Despite the controversy, DR Congo celebrated their qualification, while Nigeria must now regroup and reflect on what went wrong in another painful playoff setback.
