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PRAYERFUL: Bucs coach Augusto Palacios

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Palacios went to the ground soon after captain Lucky Lekgwathi scored a scorcher to help Pirates beat SuperSport United 2-1 at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Tuesday night.

The celebrations have resulted in some soccer followers trying to establish whether the former Peru World Cup player has converted to Islam.

"I grew up in a Christian family and we are Catholics at home," said Palacios, who is close to winning his first league title since arriving in South Africa in 1985.

"When Lucky scored, I just went down to say thank you God for the goal, and prayed for a win, which eventually came. Even when I was still a player, I always prayed before and after the match, even after a goal was scored.

"I also taught my children to believe in God and pray even if things are going right for them. I believe in Him to help me lead Pirates to the land of milk and honey by winning the league," he said.

Palacios, who has also coached Bafana Bafana, first came to South Africa with compatriot Sergio Novoa to play for Witbank Black Aces.

"I have won many titles both as a player and coach here in South Africa, but the league has been eluding me," said Palacios.

"(But) I can see the light at the end of the tunnel."

Comments

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Wed May 22 19:13:40 SAST 2013 ::

May 3, 2012

Mtswalerr

Lucky is the Buccanears who is a spirit filled mentor. Amen!!
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May 3, 2012

Mafu'theNkukhu

Peruvian celebration...Mr Njeje.
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May 3, 2012

SKIZOBANTWANA

Thatha Njenje
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May 3, 2012

sakhomba

I don't give a hoot if Njenje is Christian, muslim or sangoma. as long as he can lead us to the championship.
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May 3, 2012

maftowncity

Njenje,one of the best cosches who always stuck to his guts....i havent spoken to Njenje for sometimes,i am sure if he lifts this cup Njenje will give me 10min to talk to him..Good luck sir
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May 3, 2012

Lehido

Im not a Pirates fan but Good luck coach, You will win this one
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May 3, 2012

Tasto

So my beloved OPFC is handiwork to experiment how to win the Leugue !! I thoought also you converted to muslim when I saw you kneeling like muslim do or Moneeb has converted you !!
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May 3, 2012

Phuphethakatha

I watched this but I did not see anything Muslim about it. Where I come from (EC) in most religions including Christians we say" Masiguqeni sithandaze" (Let's kneel and pray). Cup De Bucs !!!
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