Foot Africa
·17 November 2025
World Cup 2026 playoffs: Eric Chelle apologizes to the Congolese

In partnership with
Yahoo sportsFoot Africa
·17 November 2025


World Cup 2026 playoffs: Eric Chelle apologizes to the Congolese
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has issued an apology following his behavior at the end of the penalty shootout loss to DR Congo.
After the match, Chelle explained that he had seen a member of the Congolese staff make a suspicious gesture in his technical area, which upset him. However, he eventually decided to de-escalate the situation. Here’s what he said:
I reacted out of anger. I never intended to attack the Congolese people or their staff. I respect them. I’m disappointed to go out, but proud of my players. Congratulations to Congo, they were the better side.
Chelle also praised the supporters of both teams:
Their crowd was incredible, just like ours.









































