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Rabat – A bizarre controversy happened during the African World Cup playoff final in Rabat, where Nigeria’s national team was eliminated by DR Congo in a tense penalty shootout.
After the match, Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle accused DR Congo of using “voodoo” or magic to influence the result.
The match ended 1–1 after extra time, with DR Congo winning 4–3 on penalties to secure a spot in the intercontinental playoffs.
🔥 OFF CAMERA DRAMA!! 🔥
Nigeria’s coach, Éric Sékou Chelle, was captured trying to fight just before the last penalty kick of the game! 😳
He was reportedly picking up a water bottle, seemingly aiming at a member of the DR Congo technical team.
The match commissioner will… pic.twitter.com/q4SRKbRa9a
— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) November 16, 2025
The incident that sparked the accusation occurred just before the final penalty, when DR Congo’s manager was seen pouring water on the pitch near the penalty spot. Chelle reacted angrily, confronting the opposing staff and gesturing toward the area.
Footage of the moment quickly went viral, with fans and media speculating about the nature of the act. Some interpreted it as a superstitious ritual, while others dismissed it as a distraction tactic. Chelle later told reporters, “This is not football. We lost to something else.”
Some Nigerian fans also believe the injuries to Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, and Ademola Lookman during the match were not a coincidence, but the result of DR Congo’s alleged use of magic, which weakened Nigeria’s attack.
DR Congo has not officially responded to the claims, but their players celebrated the victory with pride, marking their first World Cup playoff success since 1974.
The incident has sparked debate across African football about the role of superstition, mental games, and sportsmanship.
While rituals and symbolic gestures are not uncommon in football, public accusations of “magic” are rare and controversial, especially in African countries.
For Nigeria, the loss marks a painful moment. The Super Eagles have now failed to qualify for two consecutive World Cups, raising questions about leadership and preparation.
The match was played at Rabat’s Moulay El Hassan Stadium, and despite the drama, DR Congo’s qualification stands as a major achievement.
