Voodoo Controversy Erupts as Congo Stuns Nigeria in World Cup Qualifier

On November 16, 2025, the African soccer powerhouse Nigeria was shockingly eliminated from qualifying for the 2026 World Cup after losing to Congo in a penalty shootout. The dramatic match, which ended 1-1 after extra time, saw Congo advance to the intercontinental playoffs in March 2026.

The controversy began during the penalty shootout, when Nigeria coach Éric Chelle accused a member of the Congo coaching staff of using voodoo tactics. Chelle, a former Mali international, was filmed getting agitated and moving aggressively towards the Congo technical area. "The guy of Congo did some voodoo," Chelle told reporters, claiming the Congo staff member's actions were the reason he was "a little nervous."

Congo's victory was largely due to the heroics of their substitute goalkeeper, Timothy Fayulu, who was brought on in the 119th minute specifically for the penalty shootout. Fayulu saved two of Nigeria's six spot-kicks, including shots from Moses Simon and Semi Ajayi, before Congo's Chancel Mbemba sealed the win.

The dramatic scenes echoed the famous 2014 World Cup incident when Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal famously substituted his goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen for Tim Krul, who went on to make two key saves against Costa Rica in a penalty shootout.

Despite the presence of star strikers Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, Nigeria has now failed to qualify for back-to-back World Cups. Osimhen was injured in the first half, while Lookman was also substituted in the second half of the match.

Congo's victory was celebrated by their passionate supporters in Rabat, Morocco, as the team secured their place in the intercontinental playoffs for a chance to reach the 2026 World Cup.