Former PSL defender Yusuf Jappie has opened up about one of the strangest experiences of his professional football career, recalling how he was pressured to participate in a traditional muti ritual before a match against Kaizer Chiefs.
The former Free State Stars and Golden Arrows defender shared the unusual dressing-room story while reflecting on the role traditional practices have played in South African football.
Jappie Recalls Unusual Pre-Match Ritual
Jappie, now 31, explained that although he personally did not believe in muti because of his religious beliefs, he played for teams where some members of the squad embraced traditional practices.
According to the former defender, one particularly memorable incident occurred before a match against Kaizer Chiefs.
He recalled being handed a two-litre Coca-Cola bottle while standing in the shower. However, despite the familiar branding, Jappie said the bottle contained something other than a soft drink.
The defender said he initially refused to use the substance but was warned that his decision could be reported to the club’s management.
Eventually, he reluctantly took part in the ritual.
What Did Jappie Have to Do?
Jappie described being instructed to wash parts of his body with the mysterious substance.
The ritual reportedly involved washing from his elbows down to his hands, both arms, as well as his legs from the knees down. He also said he was instructed to wash his face with it.
Despite his personal reservations, Jappie went along with the practice because of the pressure from those around him.
And Then They Beat Kaizer Chiefs
The strangest part of the story came after the ritual.
Jappie recalled that his team went on to defeat Kaizer Chiefs 2-1, adding another layer to an already unusual football memory.
However, the former player has been clear that he personally does not subscribe to the beliefs surrounding muti.
His story highlights the very different attitudes toward traditional practices that have existed within South African football dressing rooms.
Muti and South African Football
Traditional practices and beliefs have long been discussed within South African football, with former players and coaches offering very different perspectives on their use.
Some former footballers have claimed such rituals played a role in memorable victories, while others have dismissed the practice or questioned its effectiveness.
Former Bafana Bafana midfielder Teko Modise has previously spoken about traditional practices, while veteran coach Gavin Hunt has also recalled experiences involving muti during his coaching career.
Jappie’s account provides another fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes stories that rarely make it onto the football pitch.
Would you have taken part in the ritual if your teammates pressured you?
