DR Congo team director says his gesture was misunderstood
A senior official of the DR Congo national team has broken his silence following the viral claim by Super Eagles coach Finidi George Chelle, who suggested that the Congolese bench was performing “voodoo” during their 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff match.
The official, Guy Kabongo, who serves as the team’s director of logistics, said the allegation was completely false. According to him, what Chelle interpreted as voodoo was simply a moment of prayer during a tense phase of the match.
Kabongo explained that he lifted his hands and bowed his head because he was asking God for calmness and clarity after what he felt was a poor refereeing decision. He said he was shocked to see the gesture circulate online with claims of ritual practices.
‘I was praying for God to help the team’
Speaking to journalists, Kabongo clarified that he is “a deeply religious man” and that prayer is his natural response during stressful sporting moments.
He emphasised that Africans must stop feeding stereotypes that associate ordinary actions with black magic or superstition.
Kabongo said:
“I was praying. Nothing more. It’s sad that people still see normal spiritual practices and call it voodoo. I was only asking God to guide the players. Football is emotional, and prayer is part of my life.”
DR Congo camp expresses disappointment but urges calm
Officials close to the team said they were disappointed that Chelle’s comments gained traction, arguing that such statements can damage the image of African football on the global stage.
They noted that emotions were high after the match, especially with the growing pressure on Nigeria and DR Congo in the World Cup qualification race, but insisted that sportsmanship must be upheld.
Kabongo added that while he felt the coach’s remark was unnecessary, he bears no grudge and hopes both sides can move on from the controversy.
Chelle’s comment triggers online debate
Chelle’s “voodoo” comment trended heavily on social media, with fans across Africa arguing over whether the Nigerian coach misinterpreted the gesture or reacted out of frustration following his team’s performance.
Some football enthusiasts defended him, saying bench behaviour in African football is often animated and can be easily misunderstood. Others insisted he should have investigated before making a public remark.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has not issued any formal statement on the matter, but analysts say such controversies risk overshadowing the actual game.
DR Congo official calls for unity and respect
Kabongo concluded by calling for mutual respect among African teams, urging football lovers to stop sensationalising harmless gestures.
He said African teams should focus on improving their gameplay, discipline, and global competitiveness instead of giving room for divisive narratives tied to superstition.
According to him, the upcoming fixtures require intense preparation, and unnecessary distractions could affect both squads.
