Former France striker Thierry Henry has praised the performances of African nations at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting the impressive displays of South Africa, Ghana, Cape Verde, Morocco and Ivory Coast during the tournament.
Henry made the comments while working as a pundit for Fox Sports after Ivory Coast secured a 2-0 victory over Curaçao in their final group-stage match to seal qualification for the Round of 32.
The Arsenal legend said the continent’s representatives have made a strong impression, with several teams producing disciplined and competitive performances against quality opposition.
“We have to give a shout-out to the African teams. South Africa, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cape Verde and Morocco,” Henry said.
“It’s nice to see what the African teams are doing in this tournament.”
Henry’s remarks came after another positive day for African football. Ivory Coast’s victory ensured the Elephants joined the growing list of African nations to reach the knockout rounds, continuing what has been one of the continent’s strongest collective World Cup campaigns.
During the broadcast, former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimović asked Henry whether this could be “the World Cup for the African team.”
Henry, however, stopped short of making bold predictions, replying: “We will see.”
African teams have enjoyed a memorable tournament so far, with Morocco, Ghana, Ivory Coast, South Africa and Cape Verde all earning praise for their performances as the competition heads into the knockout stages.
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