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Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle accused a DR Congo official of performing “voodoo” rituals throughout the penalty shootout that ended Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup dream. The dramatic claim exploded after Chancel Mbemba buried the decisive spot-kick, sending the Leopards to the intercontinental play-offs and condemning Nigeria to another heartbreaking absence from football’s biggest stage.
Frank Onyeka’s deflected strike gave Nigeria a dream start in the third minute. Meschak Elia equalised before half-time. Extra time produced no further goals, forcing penalties. Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed Nigeria’s first two kicks. Semi Ajayi later saw his sudden-death effort saved by goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu.
As Mbemba scored the winner, Chelle charged toward the DR Congo bench in fury. Security and staff restrained him before the situation escalated further.
Speaking to reporters moments later, the Franco-Malian coach explained his outburst. “During all the penalty decisions, the guy from Congo was doing some voodoo… every time,” Chelle said, gesturing repeatedly with his hand as if sprinkling liquid. “He was throwing something like water or something. That is why I reacted.”
A DR Congo representative immediately denied the allegation when approached by journalists.
The incident quickly dominated African football headlines. Social media erupted with reactions ranging from outrage to mockery. Some Nigerian fans demanded answers from the Nigeria Football Federation, while others expressed embarrassment at the public accusations of witchcraft.
Chelle, appointed earlier in 2025, now faces intense scrutiny. Nigeria’s failure to reach the expanded 48-team World Cup marks the second consecutive cycle the three-time African champions will watch from home.
DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre downplayed the touchline confrontation, calling it “heat-of-the-moment” emotion. His side celebrated wildly, knowing one more win in March could secure their own World Cup ticket.
