Heaven’s Assist? Gospel Singer Dunsin Oyekan Claims Spiritual Role in Barcelona’s Stunning Champions League Comeback

 

The footballing world is no stranger to tales of luck, superstition, and even divine intervention. But rarely does the spiritual intersect so boldly with the sporting as it did this past week when renowned Nigerian gospel minister Dunsin Oyekan made a striking claim: he spiritually intervened to prevent FC Barcelona from losing their UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg.

Oyekan, beloved for his spirit-filled worship and chart-topping gospel hits, made the statement on social media shortly after Barcelona battled back from the brink of defeat to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw against Italian giants Inter Milan. The match, played on a tension-filled Wednesday evening, saw the Catalan club concede within the first minute, prompting what many fans feared would be a disastrous outing.

While fans around the globe rode the emotional rollercoaster of the six-goal thriller, Oyekan, it seems, was engaging in what he described as a moment of spiritual warfare. Sharing his experience on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, the worship leader recounted a conversation with his son, who had predicted a victory for Inter Milan.

“My son said Inter Milan was going to win, I said no it’s Barca… I had to use mantle to change it,” he posted, pairing the message with the Yoruba phrase “Opelope anointing,” which translates roughly to “Thanks to the anointing.”

This phrase, though brief, speaks volumes about how seriously Oyekan takes the spiritual tools at his disposal. In Pentecostal and Charismatic Christian circles, the word "mantle" refers to a symbolic and spiritual covering, often believed to carry authority, power, and divine favor. By declaring that he used a mantle, Oyekan was essentially suggesting that he applied a spiritual force to alter the trajectory of the football match.

The bold assertion immediately stirred reactions across social media platforms, ranging from light-hearted banter to deep spiritual reflection. Some fans joked that Barcelona should consider adding Oyekan to their technical team, while others questioned whether spiritual influence truly extends into football fixtures.

Whether taken as literal truth or symbolic gesture, Oyekan’s statement reflects a growing trend among African believers who see no line between the sacred and the secular. From exam halls to boardrooms, from hospital beds to football stadiums, many hold the conviction that divine power can be called upon to affect outcomes in every sphere of life.

Dunsin Oyekan, often referred to as “The Eagle,” is known not just for his musical prowess but also for his deep spiritual insight and charismatic persona. Songs like YAH, Open Up, and More Than a Song have inspired millions across the continent and beyond. It’s no surprise, then, that his words—even in a footballing context—carry a certain spiritual weight for his followers.

The Champions League encounter itself was nothing short of electrifying. Barcelona’s early stumble was quickly followed by an even more chaotic spell in the second half. With both teams refusing to back down, the match became a showcase of resilience, determination, and offensive brilliance. A 3-3 draw in a semi-final, while not ideal, offered the Spanish side a lifeline ahead of the return leg.

Still, fans and critics alike were taken aback when Oyekan attributed the result to divine intervention. For some, it highlighted the role faith plays in the personal lives of celebrities, even in situations far removed from ministry. For others, it reignited conversations about the extent of spiritual influence and whether God takes sides in sports.

Sports, often called the world’s true religion, has long attracted metaphysical interpretations. From players crossing themselves before stepping onto the pitch, to coaches invoking divine help during press conferences, faith has always had a quiet seat at the table. But Oyekan’s statement moved that seat to the head of the table—at least for a moment.

His post has since been shared widely, with many social media users either echoing the sentiment or humorously questioning which team he’ll support next. A few even suggested that Oyekan offer his “mantle” to other struggling teams, including Manchester United and Arsenal, both of whom have endured rollercoaster seasons.

This isn’t the first time spiritual leaders or public figures have made claims of influencing worldly events through supernatural means. But what makes Oyekan’s comment particularly compelling is the blend of humor, belief, and cultural context. The phrase “Opelope anointing” resonates deeply with many Nigerian Christians, symbolizing a trust in divine orchestration that transcends logic or probability.

The idea that a gospel singer could sway the outcome of an elite European football match may seem fantastical to some. Yet for those who have sat under Oyekan’s intense worship sessions or witnessed his passionate ministrations, the possibility doesn’t seem all that far-fetched.

One thing remains certain: whether by miracle, momentum, or mere coincidence, Barcelona emerged from the match with hope alive. And Dunsin Oyekan, for at least one evening, stood at the curious intersection of football and faith, reminding fans everywhere that the beautiful game—like life itself—is never short of wonder.