Nigeria coach Eric Chelle has accused a staff member from DR Congo of carrying out “voodoo” moves during the tense penalty shootout in Rabat.

The Super Eagles were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup race after losing 4–3 on penalties, following a 1–1 draw across 120 minutes.

Chelle Speaks on His Frustration

Chelle claimed he acted in anger because he saw repeated gestures from a DR Congo official during the VAR check for a penalty.

He said, “During all the penalty decision, a guy of Congo did some voodoo… Every time, every time, every time. So, this is why I was a little nervous after him.”

When asked to describe what he witnessed, he added while moving his hands: “Something like that. I don’t know if it’s water or something like that.”

Nigeria’s Early Lead and Missed Chances

The allegation has not been independently verified. Nigeria started well with Frank Onyeka scoring in the third minute before M. Elia levelled for DR Congo in the 32nd minute.

Both teams pushed hard in extra time. However, neither side found a breakthrough as the atmosphere grew tense in Rabat.

How the Penalty Shootout Unfolded

The shootout went back and forth. Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed Nigeria’s early kicks, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saved DR Congo’s first attempt.

Akor Adams scored to keep Nigeria alive. But DR Congo converted their fourth spot kick to complete a 4–3 victory.

What the Result Means

The win sends DR Congo into the intercontinental playoff, where they will fight for a spot in the expanded 48-team World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Nigeria’s defeat means they will miss a second straight World Cup, a painful outcome for the team and fans.

Journey to the Final

Nigeria had reached the final after a dramatic 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon on Thursday.

DR Congo defeated Cameroon 1–0 in their semi-final to book their place. The Leopards now wait for their playoff rivals.

For the Super Eagles, the World Cup dream ended in disappointment in Rabat. (The PUNCH, but headline rejigged)