Archive · 22 Jan 2026
Senegal's Mysterious Towel Sparks Juju Debate
During the African Nations Cup final between Senegal and Morocco, Senegal's goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, used a specific blue towel throughout the game.
This towel became a point of controversy as Moroccan supporters accused it of being used for juju or witchcraft.
The ball boys and even a Moroccan player tried to take the towel away, leading to scuffles on the field.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed fines on such incidents in the past to maintain the image of the sport.
While some believe in the power of juju, others see it as a joke.
The controversy adds a layer of intrigue to the game, which is becoming more scientific and structured.
Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy used a specific blue towel during the African Nations Cup final, leading to accusations of juju or witchcraft by Moroccan supporters.
Ball boys and Moroccan player Acharaf Hakimi attempted to take the towel away, resulting in scuffles on the field.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed fines on incidents involving juju or witchcraft to maintain the sport's image.
Juju or witchcraft accusations have been a recurrent theme in African football, with various incidents reported in past tournaments.
While some believe in the power of juju, others, like former Senegalese coach Bruno Metsu, treat it as a joke.
- Who
- Senegal and Morocco football teams, Edouard Mendy, Yehvann Diouf, Acharaf Hakimi, and Moroccan supporters
- What
- Controversy over a blue towel allegedly used for juju or witchcraft during the African Nations Cup final
- When
- During the African Nations Cup final in 2022
- Where
- Rabat, Morocco
- Why
- Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy's insistence on using a specific towel led to accusations of juju or witchcraft by Moroccan supporters
- Teams Involved
- Senegal and Morocco
- Event
- African Nations Cup final
- Key Player
- Edouard Mendy (Senegal goalkeeper)
- Controversial Item
- Blue towel
- Accusations
- Juju or witchcraft
- Weather Conditions
- Heavy rain
- CAF's Stance
- Imposes fines on such incidents