Witchcraft claims in Syli National camp: Charles Paquille's revelations

Charles Paquille's spell in charge was brief but, to say the least, eventful. Appointed on an interim basis as Guinea head coach, he oversaw two 2025 AFCON qualifiers, both of which ended in defeat: the first against the Democratic Republic of Congo (1-0) and the second against Tanzania (1-2). That poor run hastened the return of Michel Dussuyer, a well-known face in Guinean football, who has been called on to take the reins again.

Now that he has left, Paquille has chosen to speak publicly about his short stint in charge, revealing troubling incidents that allegedly took place behind the scenes, particularly around the two games. According to him, mysterious practices linked to traditional rituals are said to have unsettled the dressing room, notably the episode of the "soaked socks".

Socks soaked in traditional potions

In an interview with CIS Médias, Charles Paquille recounted two incidents that raised questions. The first allegedly happened before the game against DR Congo in Kinshasa, where the team reportedly arrived at the stadium without socks. According to him, kit managers had to be sent off by motorbike taxi to fetch some at the last minute. However, the second episode, before the game against Tanzania in Yamoussoukro, took an even more surprising turn.

Charles Paquille explains: "I saw players whispering among themselves, and Ibrahima Sory Conté had to step in to calm two or three players. That's when I learned that socks had been soaked in traditional potions, creating a real controversy within the group".

The coach appeared visibly shaken by these events, wondering whether the practices were meant to harm or to help the team: "Was it done for the good of the team? Was it with the players' agreement? Personally, I knew nothing about it and it made me angry. Some players refused to wear them, and it took lengthy negotiations before they agreed. It's simply not acceptable", he added.

What future for the Syli National?

As Guinea prepare for their next fixtures, notably the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, this affair could well weigh on squad morale. Michel Dussuyer, now back in charge of the team, will probably need to address this delicate subject with the players to restore unity in the group.

In the meantime, Guinean fans are wondering whether the controversy will affect their team's future performances or, on the contrary, spur the group on to bounce back and aim for qualification for the 2025 AFCON. The next squad gatherings and statements from the players may bring more clarity to these allegations which, for now, cast doubt over the Syli National's internal environment.