Ex-DR Congo Boss Slams Chelle Over ‘Voodoo’ Accusation

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Former DR Congo national team coach Florent Ibenge has strongly dismissed allegations suggesting that supernatural practices played a role in Nigeria’s defeat during the World Cup qualification playoffs.

The controversy began after Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle reportedly suggested that a member of the Congolese technical staff engaged in voodoo rituals during the tense match that ultimately ended Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria’s elimination came after a dramatic encounter that finished 1–1 in regulation time, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. The Congolese side eventually secured victory 4–3 on penalties, sealing their advancement while leaving Nigeria out of the tournament scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to Gossip News Now, Chelle’s remarks after the defeat sparked debate when he claimed that unusual rituals had taken place as Nigerian players prepared to take their penalties.

Ibenge Responds to the Accusation

Reacting to the claim during an interview with ESPN, Ibenge rejected the suggestion outright and described the accusation as baseless.

The experienced coach, who currently manages Azam FC in Tanzania, stated that he personally knows the individual referenced in the allegation and insisted there was no truth to the story.

Ibenge explained that throughout his long involvement in Congolese football, he had never witnessed any evidence linking such rituals to match outcomes.

He further argued that the narrative surrounding voodoo in football often stems from cultural folklore rather than verifiable facts.

In his view, attributing sporting results to supernatural practices distracts from the real factors that determine performance on the pitch.

Focus Shifts to AFCON Preparations

With the disappointment of missing the World Cup still fresh, Nigeria has now redirected its attention toward upcoming continental competitions.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco has become the next major objective for the Super Eagles.

The team has been placed in Group C, where they are scheduled to face three opponents during the tournament’s group stage:

Tunisia
Uganda
Tanzania

These matches are expected to test Nigeria’s readiness as the squad attempts to rebuild confidence after the World Cup qualification setback.

Chelle’s Squad Announcement

As part of early preparations for the continental competition, coach Eric Chelle has already unveiled a 54-player provisional squad.

The large selection pool is intended to allow the technical crew sufficient time to evaluate players and determine the final team list ahead of the tournament.

Chelle, who assumed leadership of the Nigerian national team in January 2025, faces the challenge of restoring momentum and guiding the team back to winning ways.

His primary target will be helping Nigeria secure its fourth Africa Cup of Nations title, a goal that would mark a significant milestone for the team.

Commentary and Analysis

The dispute over alleged voodoo rituals reflects a recurring theme in African football, where supernatural explanations sometimes surface following controversial or emotionally charged matches.

While such narratives occasionally capture public attention, analysts generally emphasise that match outcomes are determined by tactical decisions, player performance, and mental resilience.

Nigeria’s focus moving forward will likely depend less on post-match controversies and more on building a strong squad capable of competing successfully in Morocco.

For Eric Chelle, the upcoming AFCON tournament may serve as an opportunity to reshape the team’s narrative after the painful World Cup qualification loss.

If the Super Eagles perform strongly, the competition could become a crucial moment for rebuilding national confidence and reaffirming Nigeria’s reputation as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.