Former DR Congo head coach Florent Ibenge has rejected claims that spiritual practices influenced Nigeria’s World Cup playoff defeat to the Leopards, describing the allegation as “complete nonsense” and a product of African folklore rather than football reality. His response follows remarks by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, who suggested a Congolese staff member performed voodoo rituals during the penalty shootout.
Nigeria lost 4–3 on penalties in November after a tense 1–1 draw, crashing out of the 2026 World Cup race in one of the most painful eliminations in recent years. The defeat triggered national frustration, conspiracy theories and heated debates about the team’s mental preparation. But Ibenge insists the outcome had nothing to do with supernatural influence.
“As for voodoo, I don’t believe in it for a second,” he told ESPN. “I know the person accused very well. I spent seven years in Congolese football and never once saw a cause-and-effect relationship. It’s complete nonsense… just folklore.”
The coach noted that such myths persist because of Africa’s deep oral traditions, but maintained that the playoff result was purely footballing — tactical discipline, composure, and Nigeria’s inability to convert decisive moments. His comments have reopened debate among Nigerian fans, many of whom still cling to theories explaining the unexpected collapse.
The Super Eagles have now shifted attention to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they are grouped with Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania. Coach Chelle — who recently named a 54-man provisional squad — faces mounting pressure to restore confidence after Nigeria missed the 2026 World Cup and exited early in several recent tournaments.
As camp opens in Egypt next week, the focus is returning to preparation, mindset and structure — not mysticism.
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