Nigeria Coach Eric Chelle Accuses Congo Staff of 'Sorcery' During Penalty Shootout

Nigeria national team coach, Eric Chelle, has revealed the reason behind the altercations that occurred between him and members of the Democratic Republic of Congo's technical staff during their penalty shootout in the final of the African play-off for the 2026 World Cup global play-off.

When asked about his visible frustration with some members of the DR Congo team staff during the penalty kicks, Chelle stated: "One of the Congo staff members performed acts of sorcery, every time, during every penalty kick. That's why I was agitated towards him."

The Nigeria coach further elaborated: "I didn't know if it was water or something else, but he (one of the DR Congo team members) was constantly spraying it."

The Congolese national team secured their spot in the global play-off for the 2026 World Cup finals after defeating Nigeria 4-3 on penalties in the African play-off final. The match had ended in a 1-1 draw after regular and extra time. The game took place last Sunday evening at Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.