‘I was praying for him to score’ - DR Congo coach denies Chelle’s accusation of using voodoo against Super Eagles

A dramatic World Cup qualifying playoff final took an unusual turn on Sunday as Nigeria's head coach, Eric Chelle, confronted DR Congo's team manager, Dodo Landu, during a tense penalty shootout.

Nigeria's hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament was dashed after DR Congo defeated the Super Eagles 4-3 on penalties

During the decisive shootout, Chelle became incensed after observing Landu pacing and gesturing near the touchline. 

The Super Eagles coach appeared to believe the Congolese official was attempting to use "voodoo" to influence the outcome of the penalty shootout.

The confrontation escalated just as DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba stepped up to take the winning penalty, which he successfully converted after Semi Ajayi's attempt was saved.

As the Congolese team celebrated, Chelle charged towards Landu and had to be physically restrained by security and staff members.

Speaking to clear all allegations, Landu said, "I was praying,” rejecting any accusations of using supernatural means to affect the game.

In the wake of the incident, he explained that his actions were simply a matter of faith and emotion during a high-stakes moment.

"During Chancel’s penalty kick, I was praying for him to score," Landu stated. "Immediately, the Nigerian coach thought I was performing voodoo."

Chelle, who was appointed Nigeria's coach earlier this year, has since issued an apology for his reaction. He expressed his respect for the DR Congo team and attributed his outburst to the immense pressure of the situation.

The victory sends DR Congo to the intercontinental World Cup playoffs, while Nigeria will focus their attention to the AFCON in December.