DRC beat Nigeria on penalties, image: CitiSports Online via X.
(The Post News)– Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faced off in a tense World Cup qualifying match. Nigerian head coach, Eric Sekou Chelle, was dramatically captured on camera appearing to attempt a confrontation against DRC officials. The incident has sent shockwaves across African football circles, raising serious disciplinary questions ahead of CAF’s official review.
During the decisive moments of the match, tensions were high. The Nigeria coach reportedly bent to pick up a water bottle. However, witnesses say his intention was far from innocent. Footage shows the Nigerian coach seemingly aiming the bottle toward a member of the DR Congo technical team. The action prompted immediate reactions from match officials and both benches.
The timing could not have been more dramatic—seconds before the final penalty, a moment where pressure was already suffocating. The near-altercation briefly halted proceedings as security and technical officials moved in swiftly to restore order.
Chelle Could Face Disciplinary Action
According to officials at the stadium, the match commissioner documented the incident in full. Thus, Chelle is likely to face disciplinary action from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Sanctions could range from a formal warning to touchline bans, depending on the severity of the findings.
CAF disciplinary actions for unsporting behavior by coaching staff are typically strict, especially in high-stakes fixtures. If Chelle is found guilty of attempted violent conduct toward the DRC staff, Nigeria could lose their head coach. This would affect upcoming qualifiers.
The viral clip has sparked widespread debate among the football fraternity. Some argue Chelle’s emotions simply boiled over at a critical moment. Meanwhile, others insist such conduct is unacceptable at the elite level.
Social media has erupted with mixed opinions, with many Nigerian supporters expressing frustration, while DR Congo fans demand swift punishment. As CAF reviews the match official’s report, Nigeria waits anxiously for a decision.
Crucial qualifiers are approaching. Any sanction could disrupt the Super Eagles’ technical plans. This is especially true if Chelle is handed a ban. One thing is certain: the drama off the pitch has become as explosive as the action on it. African football fans will be watching closely as the fallout unfolds.
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