What happened in the Congo vs Nigeria World Cup qualifier match?

Congo defeated Nigeria in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 in extra time, with Congo's substitute goalkeeper making two crucial saves to secure the win.

Why did the Nigeria coach claim Congo used "voodoo" tactics?

Nigeria coach Éric Chelle accused a member of the Congo coaching staff of using voodoo during the penalty shootout, claiming it made him "a little nervous" and affected the outcome.

How did Congo's substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu's performance compare to the famous 2014 World Cup incident?

Fayulu's feat of making two key saves in the penalty shootout echoed the 2014 World Cup incident when Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal famously substituted his goalkeeper for Tim Krul, who went on to make two crucial saves against Costa Rica.

Home / Sports / Voodoo Controversy Erupts as Congo Stuns Nigeria in World Cup Qualifier

Voodoo Controversy Erupts as Congo Stuns Nigeria in World Cup Qualifier

17 Nov

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Summary

Congo staff member accused of using voodoo during penalty shootout
Congo wins African playoff final in penalty shootout, advances to intercontinental playoffs
Nigeria coach Éric Chelle claims Congo staff member's "voodoo" tactics made him nervous

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."