Nigeria’s Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has accused a DR Congo official of performing “voodoo” rituals during the penalty shootout of Sunday’s CAF World Cup playoff final.
The Super Eagles were beaten 6-5 on penalties after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes in Rabat, a result that ended their bid to reach next year’s intercontinental playoffs.
Tempers flared at full-time as both benches clashed, with Chelle visibly angry before officials intervened.
Speaking to ESPN Africa, Chelle said his frustration was triggered by what he believed were ritualistic acts carried out during each Nigerian penalty.
“During the penalty session, a guy of Congo did some voodoo. Every time, every time, every time,” he said.
“I saw hand movements and something being poured. I don’t know if it’s water or something like that.”
He said the repeated gestures distracted his players and fuelled the confrontation after the final kick
