Tensions boiled over at the end of Nigeria’s playoff defeat to DR Congo on Sunday, as Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle had to be physically separated from members of the Congolese coaching staff. Emotions were already running high after Nigeria’s painful exit from the 2026 World Cup qualifying race, but the confrontation briefly escalated near the technical area before officials intervened. Observers said the scenes reflected the intensity of the match, with many acknowledging that DR Congo were the stronger side on the night and deserved their victory. Meanwhile, the Congolese squad celebrated wildly in front of their travelling supporters, who erupted as captain Chancel Mbemba once again delivered on a big stage. Mbemba, who scored the decisive goal in the semifinal win over Cameroon on Thursday, struck again to push his team into the intercontinental playoff. DR Congo will now turn their attention to the next qualifying hurdle, while Nigeria face a period of reflection after another disappointing outing.
Tempers Flare as DR Congo Bench Clashes With Nigeria Coach Eric Chelle After Final Whistle
