Bhubaneswar: Rabat Showdown Ends in Heartbreak for Super Eagles.
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup were dashed on Sunday night as they lost to DR Congo in a dramatic penalty shootout, 4–3, after a 1–1 draw following extra time. The match, held in Rabat, Morocco, proved to be a cruel exit for the Super Eagles.
Chelle’s Controversial Accusation: “They Did Some Voodoo”
In the post-match press area, Nigeria’s head coach, Éric Chelle, made a shocking claim. He accused a member of the DR Congo technical staff of practising “maraboutage” — a local term implying witchcraft — during the penalty shootout.
Chelle described seeing repeated hand gestures, as if someone was sprinkling or shaking a liquid, possibly water.
On-Field Drama: Early Lead, Injury Blow and Disallowed Goals
Nigeria struck first when Frank Onyeka’s deflected shot gave them an early lead.
However, DR Congo equalised through Meschak Elia, and the game remained level through extra time. Chelle’s side were hampered when key striker Victor Osimhen had to be substituted due to injury.
There were also moments of tension when DR Congo had goals disallowed, but Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made some crucial saves.
Penalty Shootout Tensions Ignite on Touchline
Under heavy rain, Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed their first two kicks.
Chelle became visibly agitated, confronting DR Congo’s bench after the final penalty. The Nigerian coach was later restrained by his own team.
Timothy Fayulu, DR Congo’s substitute goalkeeper, made a decisive save, denying Semi Ajayi. Chancel Mbemba then stepped up to convert the winning spot-kick.
DR Congo Rejects Claims; Chelle Stands Firm
DR Congo’s coach, Sébastien Desabre, brushed off Chelle’s accusations, stating that the touchline incident was “not an issue.”
But Chelle did not back down. He defended his comments, saying he was “a little nervous” because of what he perceived during the shootout.
A Bitter Exit for a Once-Dominant Force
The defeat means Nigeria will miss back-to-back World Cups for the first time since 1990.
Despite the bitter end, Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong offered praise for his team, expressing pride in their effort and optimism about the future.
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