Characterization of mystical practices in professional football in Senegal

Mystical practices, as an irrational and obscure social reality in Senegal, naturally and logically find their way into professional football, which is governed by scientific rules of performance. Given this situation, we questioned their characteristics and objectives. The answers were obtained through semi-structured interviews with the actors and participant observation in the various professional football clubs in Dakar, Senegal. The main results highlight a description of mystical practices aimed at achieving success, including victory, fame, and/or promotion through the use of baths and sometimes blood sacrifices recommended by consulted holders of mystical powers. Depending on the objective, prescriptions may include offerings of kola nuts, the addition of perfume, amulets, etc. Additionally, mystical practices as a means of protection often manifest through bodily fortification and/or the averting of bad luck. These practices are generally carried out by fumigating with carefully and mystically gathered plant incense, adhering strictly to the instructions of occultists. All these recommendations are preceded by divination and prediction sessions often conveyed to the intermediaries of "xondiom".