Nigeria manager Éric Chelle has alleged that his side fell victim to 'voodoo' during a dramatic World Cup qualifying playoff defeat to DR Congo on Sunday. The Super Eagles lost 4-3 on penalties in Rabat after a 1-1 draw, meaning they will miss consecutive World Cups for the first time since 1990.
Chelle, who took charge in January, was seen confronting the DR Congo coaching staff after Chancel Mbemba's decisive spot-kick. He later told reporters that the opposition had used 'maraboutage' – a term for witchcraft – during the shootout. 'During the penalty shootout, the guy from Congo did some voodoo. Every time, every time, every time,' Chelle said, mimicking gestures he claimed to have seen.
DR Congo manager Sébastien Desabre dismissed the altercation as 'not an issue' and said his side deserved victory. 'It's difficult to start a match down 1-0 early, but the team spirit remained high,' he added. Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong did not echo his manager's claims, instead expressing devastation at the loss but pride in the team's efforts.
Nigeria took an early lead through Frank Onyeka's deflected shot, but Meschak Elia equalised after a mistake by Wilfred Ndidi. The Super Eagles' attack faltered after Victor Osimhen was substituted at half-time with a hamstring problem. DR Congo dominated possession in extra time, with Fiston Mayele having two goals disallowed, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made a crucial save to force penalties.
In the shootout, Nigeria missed their first two penalties through Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon. Despite a save from Nwabali and successful kicks from Bruno Onyemaechi and Chidera Ejuke, Semi Ajayi's effort was saved by DR Congo substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu, who had been brought on specifically for penalties. Mbemba then converted to send DR Congo through to the inter-confederation playoffs.
