SS Assad head coach Phelix Ogutu has responded to accusations of Coastal teams using black magic ‘juju’ in football by vehemently denying the claims. Ogutu joined Assad at the start of the season from Mombasa Elite, where he served as an assistant to Patrick Nyale.In his first four matches, he has led the team to two victories, one draw, and a loss to Naivas FC.##NAJAVA_MECA_8415828##Simba Gii got freebies on the season’s opening day against SamWest Blackboots, who were unable to provide a fully equipped ambulance.They unfortunately lost 4-1 in their second game to Naivas FC but bounced back with a 1-0 win against Nairobi United, followed by another 1-0 victory in the Coastal derby against Mombasa Stars last weekend.This performance has placed them third in the standings with nine points.##NAJAVA_MECA_8415817##Ogutu also addressed the ongoing narrative that Coastal teams utilize juju (black magic) to intimidate opponents.In recent years, teams from the region have faced accusations of using unethical practices to secure victories, including alleged bribery of match officials and reliance on juju.Having managed two teams from the area, Ogutu stated, “I have never encountered such practices, although I recognize that some people believe in visiting a ‘Babu’ before a match. I am a Christian who believes in God through Jesus Christ, and the club leadership respects that. Since my arrival at SS Assad FC, I haven’t seen or practiced anything like that. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8415851##My opinion is that black magic cannot help a team win the league or matches. If it could, teams like Young Africans and Simba SC would have dominated tournaments like the Champions League,”He continued, “While some local teams believe you can’t go into a match without visiting a ‘Babu,’ I don’t even know what one looks like. I’m grateful that my bosses are God-fearing individuals who respect my faith, and no one has ever asked me to engage in those superstitions. If that were the case, it might have helped us avoid conceding against Naivas.”Ogutu emphasized that having the freedom to manage the team without interference has contributed significantly to their revitalized form.Kenya at a loss as Manchester United’s Andre Onana makes promise to Uganda”We did not start the season strongly, but for those who feel we are on the right track, it’s due to the management here. They have given me the freedom to operate without any interference,” he stated.The former Gusii FC head coach added, “The collaboration between the technical bench and the executive at Assad is outstanding. We have their full backing, and they are keen on the players’ welfare.”Revealed: Hundreds of thousands paid by FKF presidential candidates to clear for electionsOgutu also challenged the stereotype that Coastal players are lazy, attributing this perception to coaches who fail to motivate their players.”No one is born lazy; it depends on the coach’s perspective. A player may show signs of laziness but still have great potential. If a coach dismisses such a player, it reflects poorly on them as well. From my experience, laziness among Coastal players is not a factor; there is significant talent in the region. The real obstacle is a lack of professionalism,” he explained to Mozzart Sport.
