A video of Ivorian goalkeeper Yahia Fofana has caused a buzz online after an unusual item, allegedly ‘Juju,’ was tied around his waist during the AFON final match against the Super Eagles.
The video, which surfaced online, shows a black material tied around the goalkeeper’s waist with a white rope, leading to speculation among viewers.
The video, allegedly taken during the match, has fueled rumours and suggestions that the black material might be a fetishistic item, possibly voodoo or juju .
The video capturing Yahia Fofana wearing a black material around his waist during the AFCON final against Nigeria quickly went viral, sparking widespread speculation and debate. Netizens and football enthusiasts alike were divided in their interpretations of the incident. While some dismissed it as a harmless superstition or cultural expression, others raised concerns about the ethical implications and fairness of using mystical practices to gain an edge in competitive sports.
Unsurprisingly, the video elicited a myriad of reactions on social media platforms, with opinions ranging from amusement to outrage. Memes, jokes, and conspiracy theories flooded the internet as fans attempted to make sense of the bizarre occurrence. Some supporters of Ivory Coast rallied behind Fofana, praising his dedication and commitment to the team’s success, while others condemned the alleged use of juju as a violation of the spirit of fair play.
The controversy has intensified as fans and observers question whether such alleged rituals could have played a role in the Ivory Coast team’s performance, particularly in the AFCON finals.
It is noteworthy that Within Nigeria has not independently verified the authenticity of the video.
Netizens Reactions…
Keny David said: “Make everybody carry him own JuJu for Body … The person way get the strongest JuJu wins”
Mr Ok noted: “I’m not surprised at all”
Balogun Shola asserted: “The same thing happened to us against Ghana 🇬🇭 during WC qualifier”
CHILD OF GRACE wrote: “Wait wait, is that real. Him tie juju for back”
Ogene Afrika penned: “African mentality..they went extreme”
GIFTED wrote: “That’s isn’t the Ivorian Oga ..check the name …the Ivorian goalkeeper’s name is Y.FOFANA …Nigeria played rubbish”
Princewhite_chi said: “Small AFCON like this Una don Dey use juju, so Wetin Una go come use for World Cup 🤷♂️😂”
@KennyNuga said; “Make everybody carry him own JuJu for Body … The person way get the strongest JuJu wins.”
@DIMdmncmarkk said; “Swearz…na wetin I dey reason since”
Beyond the immediate spectacle of the AFCON final, the “him tie juju for back” incident raises broader questions about the intersection of culture, superstition, and sportsmanship in professional football. While FIFA and other governing bodies have stringent regulations against the use of performance-enhancing drugs and other forms of cheating, addressing the issue of juju presents unique challenges due to its deeply entrenched cultural roots.
The “him tie juju for back” incident during the AFCON final serves as a poignant reminder of the complex relationship between sports and superstition in African football. While some may dismiss it as harmless folklore, others see it as a manifestation of deeper cultural beliefs and societal norms. As the debate continues to unfold, it is crucial to approach the topic with sensitivity and understanding, recognizing the diverse perspectives and experiences that shape the sporting landscape. Ultimately, whether juju has any tangible impact on the outcome of matches remains open to interpretation, but its presence underscores the enduring influence of tradition and belief in the beautiful game.
