South Africa's Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has officially called on football governing bodies FIFA and CAF to impose disciplinary measures against Nigeria's national football team following an explosive incident during their crucial World Cup playoff match.
Chaotic Scene During Penalty Shootout
The controversy erupted during the tense penalty shootout between Nigeria's Super Eagles and DR Congo in the African playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Coach Eric Chelle was captured on video charging toward the opposition's technical area, creating a dramatic scene that has since gone viral across social media platforms.
The Super Eagles had initially taken an early lead in the match but failed to maintain their advantage as DR Congo equalized and ultimately secured victory through the penalty shootout. This defeat eliminated Nigeria from World Cup contention while DR Congo advanced to the inter-continental playoffs.
Coach's Explanation and Apology
According to eyewitness accounts and Chelle's own admission, the confrontation occurred when the Super Eagles coach believed a member of the DR Congo technical staff was engaging in what he perceived as "voodoo" practices during the critical penalty kicks.
Following the match, Chelle took to social media platform X to explain his actions, writing: "Football is all about emotions. After the match, I reacted hotly to an altercation with a member of the DRC staff trying to come into my technical area."
The Franco-Malian tactician expressed respect for the Congolese people and their staff while acknowledging his emotional reaction to the team's elimination. He extended congratulations to DR Congo for their victory and praised both teams' supporters for their passionate display.
South Africa's Strong Reaction
South Africa's Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie responded strongly to the incident, describing Chelle's behavior as "totally unacceptable" and demanding immediate punishment from football authorities.
In his own social media statement, McKenzie declared: "This is totally unacceptable behaviour, we will be looking very closely at this matter, this type of behaviour brings the game in disrepute. Nigeria should be punished for this unbecoming behaviour. This is football not UFC."
The minister's reaction follows his previously stated position against Nigeria's World Cup qualification. During an earlier interview with journalist Robert Marawa, McKenzie had openly expressed: "I want them to lose. Nigeria must not go to the World Cup. Another African country must go."
Potential Consequences for Nigeria
Prominent football journalist Osasu Obayiuwana has indicated that Coach Eric Chelle faces likely disciplinary action from football authorities. The former FIFA anti-racism task force member suggested possible sanctions could include the coach missing Nigeria's first two competitive matches or the team facing substantial fines.
The incident adds to what was already a chaotic night for the Super Eagles, which included the mysterious half-time disappearance of star striker Victor Osimhen, as reported by All Nigeria Soccer.
This development represents another chapter in the ongoing football rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa, particularly significant given South Africa's recent qualification from CAF Group C for the World Cup after initially having points deducted.
