Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has expressed his disappointment with the outcome of his side’s World Cup playoff clash against DR Congo on Sunday night.
The 48-year-old Malian could not lead Nigeria to qualify for the 2026 finals after they fell 4-3 in a penalty shootout to DR Congo following a 1-1 draw at full time.
Chelle accused the central African nation of “doing some voodoo” during the penalty kicks to claim the victory.
“During the penalty session, a guy of Congo did some voodoo. Every time, every time, every time,” Chelle said to ESPN Africa.
“So, this is why I was a little bit nervous after him.”
When asked what exactly he saw, the Malian replied: “Something like—” he gestured with his hands— “I don’t know if it’s water or something like that.”
To get to the playoffs final the Super Eagles thrashed Gabon 4-1 after extra-time while DR Congo edged out Cameroon 1-0.
The Super Eagles got off to a perfect start after Frank Onyeka’s deflected strike ended in the back of the net.
But in the 32nd minute DR Congo equalised through Mechak Elia after Alex Iwobi was dispossessed of the ball in the midfield.
After both teams failed to find the winner the game went to penalty shootout with the Congolese coming out tops.
DR Congo will now represent Africa in the intercontinental playoffs billed to hold in Mexico in March 2026.
