Table of Contents
- Coach's Comments on Voodoo Claims
- Super Eagles' Exit from World Cup
- Nigeria's Squad Announcement
- Player Retirement Announcement
Former coach of DR Congo, Florent Ibenge, has dismissed Eric Chelle’s assertion that the Leopards employed voodoo against the Super Eagles during their World Cup qualifying playoff final in Morocco.
Following the 4-3 defeat in a penalty shootout, Chelle claimed that a member of the DR Congo technical staff engaged in voodoo practices.
It is important to note that the Super Eagles of Nigeria will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, after being defeated by DR Congo in the playoff final in November.
Chelle accused a Congolese official of performing “voodoo” rituals before the shootout.
Ibenge responded to this claim in an interview with ESPN, stating that the Nigerian coach was speaking nonsense.
“As for voodoo, I don’t believe in it for a second,” he remarked.
“Especially since I know the individual who has been accused very well.
“I spent seven years in Congolese football, and never once did I observe a cause-and-effect relationship.
“It’s complete nonsense; it’s more folklore than anything else, and we are merely perpetuating legends and rumors. This is the legacy of our oral tradition that continues.”
Nigeria has recently announced their provisional squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they will face Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in Group C of the tournament.
Meanwhile, a senior member of the team and captain, William Troost-Ekong, announced his retirement from international football on Thursday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Florent Ibenge say about the voodoo claims?
Florent Ibenge described the claims as nonsense, stating he does not believe in voodoo and emphasized that he never witnessed any cause-and-effect relationship during his time in Congolese football.
Why won't Nigeria be at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Nigeria will not be participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup because they were defeated by DR Congo in the final of the playoff.
What is Nigeria's upcoming tournament?
Nigeria's upcoming tournament is the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they will compete in Group C against Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Who announced their retirement from international football?
William Troost-Ekong, a senior member of the team and captain, announced his retirement from international football.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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