Chelle, visibly furious after the penalty shoot-out loss, alleged that individuals in the DR Congo technical area were using “voodoo” during the shoot-out. The match had ended 1–1 after 120 minutes before the Leopards sealed a 4–3 victory via penalties.
The outburst led to a moment of chaos, with members of Nigeria’s coaching team restraining the Malian tactician as he confronted match officials and the opposing bench.
Although Chelle has since issued an apology, attributing his behaviour to heightened emotions during the tense encounter, his comments are expected to trigger disciplinary scrutiny from FIFA.
Osasu Obayiuwana, a former member of FIFA’s anti-racism taskforce, expressed concern on X, stating that Chelle could face a “heavy fine and/or a touchline or stadium ban,” which might exclude him from as many as two-thirds of Nigeria’s group-stage matches at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
FIFA has not yet issued an official response, but disciplinary proceedings are anticipated.
