Nigeria’s quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a heartbreaking end after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in Rabat, Morocco a match that has since generated global discussion, not just for the on-field action but also for controversial post-match allegations involving so-called “voodoo”.
A High-Stakes Clash That Lived Up to Expectations
According to GhanaRegions.com, both nations were fighting for a place in the inter-confederation play-offs, the match delivered intensity, emotion, and late drama from start to finish.
Onyeka Strikes Early (3’)
Nigeria got off to a dream start when Frank Onyeka fired home in the 3rd minute, giving the Super Eagles early momentum and sending their supporters into celebration.
Elia Levels the Match (32’)
DR Congo responded with determination, and their pressure was rewarded just after the half-hour mark when Meschak Elia drilled in the equaliser. The goal shifted the tempo of the match, with both sides pushing for a winner but unable to break the deadlock in regular time.
120 Minutes, No Winner
The match extended into extra time, where fatigue and tension took over. Nigeria came close on multiple occasions, while DR Congo’s counterattacks remained dangerous. Yet neither team managed to find the breakthrough.
With the score locked at 1–1 after 120 minutes, the match was forced into a nerve-shredding penalty shootout.
DR Congo Triumph in the Shootout
DR Congo showed composure from the spot, converting their penalties with confidence. Nigeria, however, faltered at key moments, and the shootout defeat extinguished their hopes of appearing at the 2026 World Cup.
The victory sends DR Congo into the March 2026 inter-confederation play-offs, keeping their World Cup dream alive.
Post-Match Turmoil: Manager Eric Chelle Confronts DR Congo Staff
Shortly after the final whistle, tensions escalated. Nigeria manager Eric Chelle was seen confronting several members of the DR Congo staff. The reasons initially seemed unclear, but moments later Chelle made a striking allegation.
‘Voodoo’ Claims Ignite Controversy
In his post-match comments, Chelle alleged that DR Congo players had used “voodoo” practices during the penalty shootout — a claim that quickly became the focal point of post-match discussion.
A representative from the DR Congo team publicly denied the allegation, dismissing it outright and emphasising that their victory was due to preparation, mental toughness, and execution under pressure.
Why the Allegations Matter
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Such claims can amplify long-standing cultural stereotypes.
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FIFA regulations strictly prohibit superstition-related misconduct only if it interferes with play — no such breach was reported.
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No evidence has been presented to support the claim.
The incident has sparked debate across African football circles, with many calling for calm and a focus on sporting professionalism.
Nigeria Face a Painful Rebuild
For Nigeria, the defeat is a major setback, marking another missed World Cup and raising questions about the team’s direction, technical leadership, and consistency in decisive matches. The Super Eagles will now begin reassessing their strategy as they prepare for future competitions.
DR Congo March On — Eyes on World Cup Qualification
Buoyed by their resilience and penalty success, DR Congo now advance to the next phase, carrying momentum and growing confidence. With the inter-confederation play-offs on the horizon, they remain just one step away from reaching the World Cup for the first time since 1974.
