Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an abrupt end after a tense playoff clash with DR Congo that finished 1-1 in regular time before heading into a dramatic penalty shootout. DR Congo ultimately secured a 4-3 victory from the spot but the match has since become the centre of controversy following remarks from Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle.
The tense ending escalated when videos surfaced online showing Chelle confronting members of DR Congo’s coaching staff moments before the final penalty. With arms raised and visibly agitated he appeared to question actions taking place on the sideline. Staff members from Nigeria restrained him both before and after DR Congo converted the winning penalty.
After the match Chelle claimed that DR Congo staff were repeatedly performing suspicious actions during the shootout. He described seeing gestures that he believed were attempts to influence the penalties saying he noticed repeated motions and could not determine whether water or another substance was involved. DR Congo officials have since denied any wrongdoing.
The penalty shootout itself was chaotic with four attempts saved and one missed. As Chancel Mbemba stepped up to score the decisive kick an object was thrown toward him but he calmly converted to send DR Congo into the intercontinental playoffs in March. Nigeria entered the match ranked 19 places higher but will now miss the World Cup for the second consecutive cycle.
