“DR Congo Did Voodoo During Every Penalty,” Chelle Says as He Makes Excuses for Super Eagles’ Loss

Eric Chelle has accused DR Congo’s bench of resorting to “voodoo” tactics during the tense penalty shootout that sealed Nigeria’s absence from the 2026 World Cup. The Super Eagles fell 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw extended through extra time in the African World Cup playoffs final.

Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon and Semi Ajayi failed to convert from the spot, while Chancel Mbemba delivered the decisive kick that pushed DR Congo into the intercontinental playoffs. Moments after the winner, Chelle stormed toward the Congolese bench and had to be restrained as tempers escalated.

In his post-match remarks, the Super Eagles head coach claimed he repeatedly saw members of the DR Congo technical team performing acts he described as voodoo throughout the shootout. He said someone near their bench appeared to be using “something like water” with the intention of unsettling his players.

Chelle’s frustration capped a night of disappointment for Nigeria, which will now miss its second straight World Cup. The setback marks the first time since the nation’s 1994 debut that the Super Eagles have failed to reach consecutive tournaments.