Chelle‘s apology to Congolese people over voodoo accusations
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 18.11.25. | 13:40
Nigeria boss also acknowledged that DR Congo was a better team
Eric Chelle was a surprise hire back in January 2025. The first non-Nigerian African ever to lead the Super Eeagles, Mali coach took them after they made a winless start in World Cup qualifyiers, drawing three of their first four games in Group C. They were four points behind group leaders Rwanda, and since he took over, Nigeria played in 13 games (in all competition), losing only two, before surrending in the 14th game against DR Congo. It was a miracle that they even made it to the playoffs, but once they got there, it was expected that the Super Eagles will qualify, due to their strong squad.
Chelle was tasked with "the responsibility of guiding the Super Eagles to earn a ticket to the 2026 Fifa World Cup finals" when appointed and now, after that failure, along with ‘vooddoo‘ accusations against DR Congo staff member, the Malian coach is facing an uncertain future, especially since the majority of Nigerian fans wanted either a domestic coach or a proven foreign name. After the outburst he had during the penalty shootout, Chelle decided to apologize.
“Football is about emotions. After the match, I reacted impulsively because of an altercation with a member of the DRC staff who tried to enter my technical area. I never intended to target the Congolese people or their staff, whom I respect" wrote Chelle on his social media account.
Former Mali coach congratulated the Leopards on their qualification to the Inter-Confederation playoffs, the last obstacle before the World Cup.
“Disappointed by our elimination, but proud of my players. Congratulations to Congo, who were the better team. Their fans showed great passion, just like ours. We'll move forward together“ he wrote.
