Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle got into an altercation with Sebastien Desabre and the DR Congo technical staff following Nigeria’s loss at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah last night, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Frenchman cut a frustrated figure on the touchline yesterday as his side came out second best in the World Cup play-off fixture against DR Congo.
Nigeria were hanging on for life in extra time, and their head coach took Tolu Arokodare off, although the Wolves man initially came on as a substitute.
He was replaced by Chidozie Awaziem as the game went into penalties, and Congo emerged victorious.
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Chelle clashes with DR Congo’s technical staff
In such a high-tension game, it isn’t out of the question for emotions to boil over, but not many expected it to be the Super Eagles’ head coach.
Ahead of the penalty shootout, the 48-year-old was captured engaging in a vocal altercation with some of the Congo staff after some bottles were thrown into Nigeria’s technical area.
However, things escalated quickly during the shoot-out as Chelle ran over to Congo’s technical area to confront some of their staff.
Super Eagles assistant coach, Daniel Ogunmodede and Congo’s head coach, Sebastien Desabre, had to quickly get involved before things went further.
Watch the video here:
OFF CAMERA DRAMA!!
Nigeria’s coach, Éric Sékou Chelle, was captured trying to fight just before the last penalty kick of the game!
He was reportedly picking up a water bottle, seemingly aiming at a member of the DR Congo technical team.
The match commissioner will… pic.twitter.com/q4SRKbRa9a
— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) November 16, 2025
Upon further reflection, Chelle took to his Instagram page to apologise for his behaviour, claiming it was never his intent to harm anyone.
“Football is all about emotions. After the match, I reacted hotly to an altercation with a member of the DRC Staff trying to come into my technical area.
“I have never wanted to target the Congolese people or staff whom I respect.
“Disappointed in our elimination, but proud of our players. Congratulations to Congo, as they were the best.
“Their fans showed great fervour, just like ours,” the translated post read.
Whether or not Chelle will be in charge of the Super Eagles for the AFCON 2025 tournament is currently unknown, but the former RC Lens defender mentioned he’ll always give his best whenever he’s called to work.