After Nigeria's elimination against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 2026 World Cup playoffs, the Super Eagles' coach, Eric Chelle , created controversy by accusing a member of the Congolese staff of practicing "voodoo" during the penalty shootout.

Frustrated by the defeat, Chelle declared:

"Throughout the penalty shootout, the guy from DR Congo was doing voodoo... I don't know if he was throwing water or something else."

His gestures, mimicking the swinging of a bottle, reinforced the spectacular and controversial nature of his accusations.

Reactions in the DRC: humor and relativism

On the Congolese side, the Nigerian coach's comments were met with humor and a sense of perspective. The DRC's coach, Sébastien Desabre , emphasized that the controversy should not overshadow the Leopards' sporting performance .

On social media, many Congolese supporters reacted ironically, pointing out that the Leopards' qualification was based primarily on their talent and technique , and not on mystical practices.

Nigeria torn between anger and mockery

In Nigeria, reactions are mixed. Some fans regret the defeat and understand Chelle's frustration, but the majority see his comments as an excuse to justify a disappointing result. The Super Eagles' performance, deemed insufficient throughout the match, is singled out as the real cause of their elimination.

An accusation that reignites the cultural debate

African football is regularly subjected to accusations linked to witchcraft or mystical rituals. These claims illustrate the cultural clash and the powerful symbolism associated with the sport on the continent. For some, it is a cultural heritage; for others, unjustified stereotypes that stigmatize African football.

Without concrete evidence, Eric Chelle's accusation will remain a defining moment of these playoffs. It illustrates the tensions and passions surrounding African football, while also highlighting the emotional and symbolic side of the sport. Meanwhile, the DRC is savoring a historic qualification, while Nigeria must now recover from an unexpected elimination.