World Cup 2026 Playoffs: Hard-Fought Match Sees Congo Move Forward as Nigeria Battle Bravely; Chelle Discusses Team Experiences
After Nigeria’s narrow penalty-shootout exit to DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup playoffs (1–1, 3–4 on penalties), head coach Eric Chelle highlighted the intensity and passion surrounding the match. Chelle noted that one member of DR Congo’s staff was highly animated during the shootout, making repeated gestures that caught his attention.
“Throughout the penalties, he kept doing these movements—every time, every time,” Chelle told ESPN, adding that he approached the staff member simply to understand what was happening. “I saw him making a gesture like this,” he said, demonstrating with his arm. “I wasn’t sure if it was water or something else, but emotions were high on both sides.”
