In one of the most viral moments from the FIFA world cup this year – the ‘Ghana Juju Man’ has caused headlines across the world after Ghana and England drew nil-all in the group stage. What should have been an easy win for England, ended up in a frustrating game for the favoured side, and a particularly poor performance from their captain, Harry Kane.
What was particularly eyebrow raising about this match was what was happening on the sidelines. A Ghana supporter, now known a the ‘Ghana Juju Man’ was seen blowing white powder at the camera, after predicting that England would not win the match and declaring that he had put a curse on England’s Captain Harry Kane.
There have been many accusations in football history of supporters using black magic to distract and disable teams and particular players. But what is the history of black magic use in football matches?
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Black Magic ‘Juju’ History
Black magic or juju is a West African spiritual belief in magic. For centuries, many Shamans within West African countries and beyond have claimed to use black magic or juju to create a desired outcome. This magic developed within tribes who had polytheistic beliefs.
Often, performing black magic is believed to encompass the power of ancestors and spirits which have already passed.
There are two main camps of the use of magic or juju – positive and negative.
For the positive use, many shamans claim to have healed people from illness and sickness, for encouraging positive outcomes and improvements, and for protection. Sometimes, this type of magic is called ‘white’ magic, symbolising its pure intent.
For negative uses, you will be familiar with the term black magic. Black magic is the darker side of spiritual practises which encourages harming a person, place or thing, manipulate or dominate. Often it will break the free will of a person, and use their misfortunes for another’s gain.
Essentially, whether the magic used is white (good) or black (bad) depends on the intention, consent of those affected and the overall outcome.
It does happen in sport, so often it has its own name: Spiritual Doping.
Spiritual Doping
Spiritual doping is the use of supernatural rituals, protective charms, and magical interventions to gain an unfair competitive advantage or sabotage opponents in sports. There is a long history and no shortage of ways spiritual doping can occur – through cursing particular talismans associated with players and teams, alterations of pitches and fields, and, of course, rituals against particular players or teams.
Towel-Gate at AFCON 2025 Grand Final (Morocco vs Senegal)
During the tense AFCON final between Morocco and Senegal, a weird fight over a goalkeeper’s towel sparked widespread rumors and accusations of juju. Convincing themselves that Édouard Mendy’s towel was magically treated to block their shots, Moroccan players intervened. Ismael Saibari blocked a backup keeper from passing the towel to Mendy, and Achraf Hakimi threw it entirely over the ad boards. While this move practically ruined Mendy’s ability to dry his hands, the players’ fierce reaction was driven by the fear of spiritual sabotage.
The incident was rather bizarre and was not even the most drama-filled occurrence of the match, which included a whole team walk off.
Rwanda Football Witchcraft Incident
After hitting the woodwork in a Rwandan Premier League match, Rayon Sports striker Moussa Camara blamed juju. Convinced the goalpost was cursed, he ran over and dug up a charm hidden by Mukura Victory’s goalkeeper. Furious opponents instantly chased and assaulted Camara, forcing the referee to halt the game amidst the on-pitch brawl.
Who is the ‘Ghana Juju Man’?
The Ghana Juju Man, is known also as Nana Kwaku Bonsam. He is Ghana’s most famous traditional spiritualist, but his real name is actually Stephen Oduro. In the local Twi language, his spiritual name translates to “Devil of Wednesday.” He runs several shrines out of Accra, offering spiritual guidance to help people hit their goals, but it is his wild football predictions that constantly put him in the global spotlight.
He first blew up internationally back during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil when he claimed he used his spiritual powers to cause the knee injury that slowed down Cristiano Ronaldo. Fast forward to the 2026 World Cup, and he was back at it.
This time, he went viral for claiming he put a spell on England’s star striker Harry Kane right before their match against Ghana. Strangely enough, the game ended in a shock 0-0 draw with Kane completely locked down. Right after the final whistle, Bonsam even dropped a video saying he was officially “lifting the curse” so Kane could go back to scoring in his next games
Known for claiming to influence football matches, he has generated significant online debate with his prediction that Cape Verde will upset Argentina in the World Cup. Bonsam further claims that the spiritual realm has determined Portugal will win the tournament
Sourced on Instagram: rivistaundici
Is the Ghana Juju Man Making Accurate Predictions? Is Spiritual Doping Real?
Most people would argue that the use of magic and juju is, instead of a living, breathing force, acts as a placebo to distract, corner and frustrate players and teams. Being told there is a curse against you has no physical effect – unless you believe it yourself.
Perhaps Harry Kane had a bad game, or it wasn’t England’s night to shine, or maybe Ghana was fueled by the Ghana Juju Man’s sentiments, which helped them cause the upset, of which there has been many this world cup.
Whatever you believe, you can’t help but admire the dedication and assured nature of the Ghana Juju Man, who will go down as one of the most iconic characters from this years world cup.
You Can Learn All About West African Magic On Our West African Tours!
Many of our tours to West Africa explore this rich culture of magic use – from Ghana to Togo and Benin, we have a tour suitable for you!
