Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle sparked controversy on Sunday after alleging that DR Congo’s players used “voodoo” during their penalty shootout victory in the CAF World Cup play-off final, MySportDab Reports.
DR Congo prevailed 4-3 on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw, progressing to March’s inter-confederation play-offs and ending Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup.
Nigeria made a dream start in Morocco, taking the lead inside three minutes through Frank Onyeka’s deflected strike. But DR Congo responded before the break as Meschak Elia turned home from close range, shifting momentum and setting up a gruelling contest that went the distance.
Extra-time brought drama, with DR Congo having two goals disallowed, but neither side could find a winner.
In the shootout, Congo introduced goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu, who made two crucial saves including the decisive stop against Semi Ajayi. Captain Chancel Mbemba then buried the winning penalty, sparking wild celebrations — and immediate confrontation.
Chelle marched towards the DR Congo bench, accusing staff members of misconduct before being restrained by his own team.
DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre dismissed the incident as “not an issue,” but Chelle later insisted reporters address it. Speaking French, he claimed, “DR Congo guys were doing maraboutage,” a term associated with North African spiritual practices. Moments later in English, he doubled down: “During all of the penalties, the players of Congo were doing some voodoo.” A DR Congo representative strongly denied the accusation.
While Nigeria face the reality of missing a second straight World Cup, DR Congo move on to the inter-confederation play-offs. They join New Caledonia and Bolivia, with three remaining spots to be filled by AFC and Concacaf teams.
The six nations will be seeded, drawn into two pathways, and compete for the final two places at the expanded 48-team 2026 tournament.
For Nigeria and Chelle, however, the fallout from Sunday’s defeat — and the coach’s explosive claim — is likely to linger long after the final whistle.
