Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle had to be held back as he attacked the DRC technical bench.
Chelle later described what was going on after seeing his team fail to advance to the ultimate play-offs next year.
On Sunday evening, the Super Eagles were defeated by the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Africa play-off final via post-match penalty shoot-outs.
The all-or-nothing encounter put two of the continent's most powerful teams against each other for a final chance to qualify for the World Cup next year.
Frank Onyeka scored inside two minutes to give Nigeria an early lead, but Meschack Elia equalized for DR Congo in the 32nd minute.
The drama began during the penalties, and it threatened to develop into chaos on the sidelines.
Eric Chelle, Nigeria's coach, was visibly irritated with a member of the DR Congo technical bench.
The Malian had to be held back, even by his opposite number, Sebastian Desabre, when he squared off against the member.
The conflict reached a boiling point when DR Congo triumphed and sent Nigeria packing.
Just before the shootout, the Leopards replaced goalie Lionel Mpasi-Nzau with Timothy Fayulu.
The decision paid out handsomely when Fayulu saved two penalties, including the critical one from Semi Ajayi, to set up Chancel Mbemba's winning goal.
After the game, Chelle explained why he was angry.
"During the penalties, the guy from Congo did some voodoo every time.
That's why I was a little concerned about him.
"He was doing something with water," he explained to ESPN Africa.
