Chelle Accuses DR Congo Official of “Voodoo” During Penalty Shootout Loss
Nigeria head coach Éric Chelle has claimed that a DR Congo official performed “voodoo” rituals during the penalty shootout in Sunday’s CAF World Cup playoff final in Rabat.
The Super Eagles lost 6-5 on penalties after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes, ending their hopes of reaching next year’s intercontinental playoffs. The tense match finished with tempers flaring, as both benches clashed at full-time before officials stepped in to calm the situation.
Speaking to ESPN Africa after the game, Chelle said his anger was triggered by what he believed were ritual-like actions carried out during each Nigerian penalty kick.
“During the penalty session, a guy of Congo did some voodoo. Every time, every time, every time,” he said.
“I saw hand movements and something being poured. I don’t know if it’s water or something like that.”
Chelle said the repeated gestures unsettled his players and contributed to the heated confrontation that followed the final kick.
Nigeria had taken an early lead through Frank Onyeka before Meschack Elia levelled for DR Congo in the 32nd minute. The Leopards dominated much of the second half and extra time, forcing several important saves from goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The shootout went into sudden death, where Chancel Mbemba scored the winning penalty after Semi Ajayi missed, sending DR Congo into the FIFA intercontinental playoffs.
