Ifeanyi Udeze Rejects Voodoo Claims After Super Eagles Loss To DR Congo

Udeze Dismisses Voodoo Allegations

Former Nigerian international Ifeanyi Udeze has rejected claims made by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle that DR Congo used voodoo during their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff.

Nigeria’s hopes of reaching next year’s tournament were dashed after a dramatic penalty shootout loss to the Congolese, following a 1-1 draw after regulation and extra time. DR Congo secured a 4-3 win on penalties, sending them through to the Intercontinental playoffs in Mexico this March.

Chelle’s Controversial Claims

After the match, tensions flared on the touchline when Chancel Mbemba scored the decisive penalty. Chelle appeared visibly angry as the benches clashed. Later, the Malian coach told ESPN Africa that he had witnessed a DR Congo official performing suspicious actions.

“During the penalty session, a guy from Congo did some voodoo. Every time. So, this is why I was a little bit nervous,” Chelle said. When asked for specifics, he added, “Something like, I don’t know if it’s water or something like that.”

Udeze Insists DR Congo Won On Merit

Udeze, a 2002 World Cup veteran, dismissed these claims outright, insisting that DR Congo earned their victory through character and determination.

“Voodoo is not the reason the Super Eagles lost. DR Congo deserved to win because they showed character; they showed that they want to go to the World Cup,” Udeze said on Brila FM.

He also placed responsibility on the Nigerian players rather than blaming the administration. “We always blame the NFF for everything, but this time the players should take the blame. The NFF, NSC, and even the federal government did everything to make sure the World Cup ticket was secured, but the players let everyone down. For me, I will call out the players because they didn’t show up.”