This story is one of the most intriguing—and controversial—examples of how spiritual beliefs can intersect with football culture, especially in Africa. Nana Kwaku Bonsam, a self-proclaimed Ghanaian witch doctor, boldly claimed in 2014 that he was responsible for Cristiano Ronaldo’s injury troubles ahead of the World Cup, saying he used spiritual means to weaken the Portuguese star specifically before the Portugal vs Ghana clash.
His statements—about invoking spirits, preparing a ritual with “Kahwiri Kapam,” and targeting Ronaldo—were widely reported, even by major outlets like The Guardian, not because they were taken as fact, but because they reflect how superstition and football can deeply intertwine in some cultures.
In truth, Ronaldo did struggle with injuries leading up to the tournament, suffering from tendinitis and a thigh issue, which fueled the buzz around Bonsam’s claims. However, there’s no medical or factual evidence linking those injuries to anything beyond physical strain from an intense season.
This kind of story, while controversial, highlights a deeper cultural layer in global football—how belief systems, folklore, and the desperation to win can influence narratives. Whether one believes in it or not, these stories often capture imaginations and stir debates about psychology, pressure, and even fear in competitive sports.