Colombian football fans have turned to prayer ahead of their country’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 showdown against Ghana, gathering at the famous Monserrate hill in Bogota in response to claims made by Ghanaian traditional priest Nana Kwaku Bonsam.
Dozens of supporters climbed the iconic religious site on Thursday morning to pray for the Colombian national team, hoping to shield their players from what they believe could be spiritual interference ahead of Friday’s knockout clash in Kansas City.
The gathering followed widespread attention in Colombia over Bonsam’s comments during the tournament, where he claimed to have influenced the performances of some international stars.
According to Colombian newspaper El Tiempo, the initiative was organised by Juan Felipe Molina and his partner, Valentina, through social media.
While organisers initially expected around 40 participants, the turnout far exceeded expectations as fans arrived from as early as 6:00 a.m. to take part in the prayer walk.
Molina said the idea was inspired by reports linking Bonsam to the struggles of some players at the World Cup.
“The idea came because my two best friends and I have been following the World Cup, and a strange story came out about Ghana and Harry Kane,” he told El Tiempo.
The supporters also expressed concern that Colombia’s star players, including Luis Diaz and James Rodriguez, could become targets of similar alleged spiritual influence.
“If Harry Kane didn’t score because of the witch doctor, then nothing should happen to Luis Diaz or James. Something had to be done to counter the effect,” Molina said.
Monserrate, one of Colombia’s most important Catholic pilgrimage sites overlooking Bogota, was selected because of its religious significance, with organisers encouraging fans to unite in faith behind the national team.
Colombia booked their place in the Round of 32 after finishing top of Group K, while Ghana advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams from Group L.
The two nations will meet on Friday, July 3, with a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at stake.
