Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has ignited fresh controversy after Nigeria’s dramatic exit from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, alleging that DR Congo players engaged in voodoo rituals during the decisive penalty shootout.

 

Speaking in a post-match interview with ESPN, Chelle claimed he observed unsettling actions from the Congolese players as tension mounted during the shootout in Rabat.

 

“During all the penalties, some of the DR Congo players were doing voodoo rituals every single time. That’s why I was so nervous,” he said.

 

The coach added that he could not clearly determine what was being used but insisted the activities appeared suspicious. “I don’t know if it was water or something else,” he added.

 

Nigeria bowed out of the qualifiers after playing out a 1–1 draw in regulation time before losing 4–3 on penalties, ending their hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

 

Chelle’s comments have sparked a wave of reactions among fans and analysts, with some dismissing the claims as emotional frustration after a painful defeat, while others argue that psychological tactics and superstition have long been part of African football folklore.

 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has not yet issued an official response to the coach’s remarks.