Nigeria Coach Accuses DR Congo of Unfair Play After Penalty Shootout Defeat in World Cup Qualifier

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Nigeria's head coach Eric Chelle has sparked controversy after accusing DR Congo of using unfair tactics during their penalty shootout victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. The African World Cup play-off final ended 1-1, and DR Congo won 4-3 on penalties, securing their spot in the intercontinental play-offs in March. In a heated exchange, Chelle was seen arguing with DR Congo's coaching staff before the final penalty, which was captured on camera. However, it was DR Congo's winning penalty that prompted Chelle to rush towards the opposition dugout, only to be restrained by his own staff. Speaking to reporters, Chelle alleged that DR Congo's player was performing 'voodoo' magic during the penalty shootout, which made him nervous. He described the alleged act as 'something like that,' but couldn't confirm if it was water or another object. DR Congo has denied these allegations. The incident overshadowed Nigeria's disappointing loss, as they were pre-match favorites and are 19 places above DR Congo in the world rankings. This marks Nigeria's second consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup.