Nigeria has publicly accused the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) of attempting to employ 'voodoo' practices to influence the outcome of their recent World Cup qualifying playoff match. These claims have been categorically rejected by former DRC head coach, Florent Ibenge.

The playoff match concluded with the DRC securing a place in the upcoming FIFA Inter-confederation playoffs after a penalty shootout that resulted in a 4-3 victory, following a regulation time draw of 1-1 in Rabat. The scoring for Nigeria was initiated by Frank Onyeka, while Meschak Elia equalized for the DRC in the 32nd minute.

Post-match statements from Nigeria's head coach, Eric Chelle, included allegations of 'voodoo' practices allegedly conducted by DRC officials during the penalty shootout. Chelle's claims were partially based on video evidence that seemed to depict a member of the DRC's technical team making rhythmic gestures toward the goal where penalties were being executed.

Ibenge, who is currently active in Tanzania, dismissed the idea that 'voodoo' could affect the game's outcome, stating, "As for voodoo, I don't believe in it for a second." He emphasized his familiarity with the individual accused of conducting these rituals.

Despite Ibenge's dismissal, Chelle reiterated his accusations, asserting that the DRC official's gestures were part of a ritualistic practice that made him feel uneasy during the penalty decisions.

Ibenge responded by highlighting that such behaviors are not representative of Congolese football culture, noting, "I spent seven years in Congolese football, and never once did I see a cause-and-effect relationship." He characterized the claims as "complete nonsense," attributing them to folklore and oral tradition rather than any real influence on the game.

The term 'voodoo' is primarily associated with traditional West African religions, notably in the Yoruba regions of Nigeria, Benin, and Togo, and is not typically connected to the DRC’s religious practices, which feature a variety of indigenous and spiritual customs.

During the penalty shootout, DRC's backup goalkeeper, Timothy Fayulu, played a crucial role by saving two penalties. Team captain Chancel Mbemba subsequently converted the decisive kick, ensuring the DRC’s aspirations for their first World Cup participation since 1974 remain intact.

Ibenge expressed a positive outlook regarding the DRC's progression in qualifying, noting their performance in the group stage where they finished second to Ivory Coast, followed by a victory over Cameroon in the playoff semifinals. He stated, "In the end, the best team on the pitch won," acknowledging the team's determination and control over their qualifying journey.

While Nigeria issued a formal apology to its supporters after the defeat, they now face the challenge of regrouping for the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations. Conversely, the DRC is set to participate in the World Cup playoffs in March, where they will meet the winner of the matchup between Jamaica and New Caledonia on March 31. This match will determine one of the final two Inter-confederation spots for the World Cup.

This defeat is significant for Nigeria, marking the first instance since 1990 that they will miss consecutive World Cups, having also failed to qualify for the 2022 tournament in Qatar.