Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup dream ended on Sunday night after the Super Eagles lost 4–3 on penalties to DR Congo in a tense playoff final in Rabat, Morocco.
But beyond the heartbreak, head coach Eric Chelle says unusual behaviour during the shootout contributed to tempers flaring at the end of the match.
Speaking after the game, Chelle claimed that a DR Congo official “did some voodoo” during the penalty kicks, which led to heated exchanges between both benches. He said the act distracted his players and caused the confrontation that followed the final whistle.
Nigeria had taken an early lead through Frank Onyeka, whose third-minute strike gave fans hope of a strong start. But DR Congo equalised in the 32nd minute after Meschack Elia finished a swift attacking move started by Cedric Bakambu.
Both teams pushed for a winner throughout regular time. Stanley Nwabali made big saves to keep Nigeria in the contest, while the Super Eagles’ attack struggled to create clear chances, especially after Victor Osimhen was substituted at half-time due to injury concerns.
Extra time produced more tension than clear opportunities. DR Congo had two goals ruled out for fouls, while Nigeria almost snatched a dramatic winner in the 120th minute when Nwabali denied Chancel Mbemba with a top-class save.
With the match locked at 1–1 after 120 minutes, the tie moved to penalties.
Nigeria scored through Akor Adams, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Chidera Ejuke, while Nwabali saved a kick from Axel Tuanzebe. But misses by Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi left the Super Eagles exposed.
DR Congo showed more composure, converting through Sadiki, Mayele, Balikwisha, and captain Chancel Mbemba, who scored the winning penalty to seal a 4–3 victory.
The loss knocked Nigeria out of the World Cup race and sparked widespread frustration among fans. Chelle’s post-match claim about “voodoo” has now added another talking point to an already emotional night for Nigerian football.
