Following Nigeria’s 1-1 draw and subsequent 4-3 penalty shootout loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 2026 World Cup African playoff final on Sunday, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle could face disciplinary action from FIFA.
Chelle, visibly emotional after the defeat, alleged that individuals in the DR Congo technical area were engaging in “voodoo” practices during the penalty shootout. The Malian coach’s comments prompted concern, with members of his coaching staff needing to physically restrain him to prevent further escalation.
In the aftermath, Chelle issued an apology for his remarks, attributing them to the intense emotions following the high-stakes encounter.
Osasu Obayiuwana, former member of FIFA’s anti-racism taskforce, shared on X: “After @FIFAcom look at this, I fear that Eric Chelle, the @NGSuperEagles head coach, will be severely punished for this act of madness – a heavy fine and/or a touchline or stadium ban. This could see him missing two-thirds of #Nigeria’s #AFCON group games.”
FIFA could impose a range of sanctions, including fines and match-day bans, highlighting the strict regulations surrounding public comments and conduct by team officials during international competitions.
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