Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle finds himself in serious trouble following his dramatic outburst during Nigeria's crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final against DR Congo on Sunday, November 16. The incident could potentially see the coach banned from the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Controversial Match That Sparked the Drama
Nigeria's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup were dashed in a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo. The match ended 1-1 after regulation time, with the Super Eagles eventually losing 4-3 on penalties at the tense encounter.
Brentford defender Frank Onyeka gave Nigeria an early lead in the 3rd minute after his shot took a deflection into the net. Despite creating several opportunities through Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, the Super Eagles failed to capitalize on their dominance.
DR Congo made Nigeria pay for their wastefulness when Meschack Elia equalized in the 32nd minute following a cross from Cedric Bakambu. The first half saw further misfortune for Nigeria as star striker Victor Osimhen sustained an injury and failed to return to the pitch after being assessed.
Chelle's Explosive Voodoo Accusation
The match's turning point came during the penalty shootout when Coach Eric Chelle engaged in a heated confrontation with DR Congo officials. The 48-year-old Mali-born coach publicly accused the Leopards of employing voodoo practices whenever Nigerian players stepped up to take their penalties.
This controversial claim came as Nigeria missed their first two spot-kicks before eventually recovering. The decisive moment came when West Brom defender Semi Ajayi missed the crucial penalty, allowing DR Congo defender Chancel Mbemba to score the winning goal that eliminated Nigeria from World Cup contention.
Despite the controversy, Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had kept his team's hopes alive in the 120th minute of regulation time with a crucial save against Lille defender Chancel Mbemba, forcing the game into penalties.
Potential FIFA Sanctions Looming
Prominent football journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, a former FIFA anti-racism task force member, has raised concerns about potential sanctions against Coach Chelle. In a detailed post on social media platform X, Obayiuwana explained that FIFA would likely investigate the incident and could impose severe punishments.
The potential sanctions include a heavy fine and either a touchline ban or complete stadium ban that could see Chelle missing two-thirds of Nigeria's group stage matches at the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.
However, some Nigerian football enthusiasts have criticized the decision to involve FIFA in the matter. Sports journalist Charles Anazodo and other commentators expressed disagreement with tagging FIFA in the controversy, suggesting the coach was merely showing support for his team in a high-pressure situation.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has commended the Super Eagles for their spirited performance throughout the World Cup qualifiers. The President emphasized the need for the team to now focus their attention on preparing for the African Cup of Nations scheduled for December 2025 to January 2026 in Morocco.
As the Nigerian football community processes the World Cup qualification disappointment, all eyes remain on FIFA's impending decision regarding Coach Eric Chelle's conduct and its potential impact on Nigeria's AFCON 2025 campaign.
