Chelle Accuses DR Congo of ‘Voodoo’ in Penalty Shoot-Out as Super Eagles Crash Out of World Cup Playoff
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has stirred controversy after alleging that members of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s staff used “voodoo” during the tense penalty shoot-out that sent Nigeria crashing out of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff on Sunday in Morocco.
Nigeria had taken an early lead in the first half through Frank Onyeka, whose shot took a deflection into the net. But the advantage didn’t last. Mechak Elia equalized for DR Congo, and after 120 minutes of anxiety, the match dragged into penalties—where Nigeria faltered once again.
Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi missed their spot-kicks, allowing the Congolese side to clinch the ticket to the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026.
“They Were Doing Voodoo” — Chelle Claims
Speaking to reporters after the match, Chelle said he became visibly irritated on the touchline because one of DR Congo’s staff appeared to be performing strange ritual-like actions during the penalty session.
“During all the penalty sessions, the guy from Congo did some voodoo,” Chelle said.
“Every time. This is why I was a little nervous after him.”
When pressed to clarify what exactly he saw, Chelle replied:
“I don’t know if it’s water or something like that he was spraying up.”
His comments have sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some dismissing the claims as frustration while others argue that psychological tactics—whether superstitious or strategic—are common in African football.
Opinion: Nigeria’s Defeat Is Bigger Than ‘Voodoo’ — It Reveals a Deeper Problem
Coach Chelle’s claims about voodoo may grab headlines, but the real concern lies beyond rituals and emotions. Whether the Congolese staff member was spraying water, praying, or simply trying to unnerve the Nigerians, one truth stands out:
Nigeria should never be relying on superstition-related excuses to explain poor performance.
The Super Eagles’ exit from the playoff did not happen because of “voodoo.” It happened because:
Nigeria lacked confidence during the penalty shoot-out.
The team showed inconsistent tactical discipline.
The players appeared mentally fatigued under pressure.
Preparation and strategy failed when it mattered most.
Football is as psychological as it is physical. Penalties are a test of composure, belief, and preparation. DR Congo stepped up with courage; Nigeria stepped up with doubt.
Blaming rituals—real or imagined—only distracts from the bigger picture:
Nigeria’s football culture is suffering from technical gaps, leadership issues, and a system that hasn’t evolved.
While African football is rich with spiritual beliefs and symbolic practices, victory still comes down to the basics:
Better tactics
Superior mentality
Proper coaching
Effective preparation
Hunger to win
If Nigeria wants to return to global dominance, the focus must shift from superstition to structure. Instead of reacting to opponents’ antics, the Super Eagles must rebuild their confidence, discipline, and identity.
The painful truth is this:
DR Congo earned their victory. Nigeria must now earn a new beginning.
