Football is all about emotions – Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle reacts to his outburst with DR Congo staff

Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, has spoken out after he almost got into a fight with a member of DR Congo staff following Nigeria’s penalty shootout defeat in the African World Cup playoff final

DR Congo came back from a goal down to beat Nigeria 4-3 on penalties in a tightly-contested African play-offs final on Sunday, November 16, at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, picking Africa’s sole ticket for the intercontinental play-offs billed for March next year.

Before a final penalty, Chelle was seen attempting to start a fight with a member of the DR Congo staff. He had to be held back by some of his coaching crew.

During his post-match interview,  Éric Chelle stated that the reason for his anger was that the Democratic Republic of the Congo team was performing rituals on the sidelines during the penalty shootout to disrupt the game.

Reacting to his outburst on Instagram, Chelle said his heated reaction after the match was due to an altercation with a DRC staff member entering his technical area. He stressed that he never intended to disrespect the Congolese people or their staff.

“Football is all about emotions,” Chelle posted in an Instagram Story.

“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 their staff, which I respect.

“Disappointed in our elimination but proud of my players. Congratulation Congo, which was the best.

“Their audience showed great fervour, just like ours. Moving forward together for what’s next.”