Former Arsenal and Barcelona star Thierry Henry has praised the performances of African nations, including Bafana Bafana, at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Henry is part of Fox Sports’ broadcast team, serving as a pundit for the tournament being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Speaking this week, the French football legend singled out South Africa, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cape Verde and Morocco for their impressive displays, commending the progress African teams have made on the world stage.
Bafana became the second African nation to reach the knockout stages after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday. Morocco had already secured qualification earlier in the tournament.
Ivory Coast later joined them as the third African side to book a place in the Round of 32, achieving the feat for the first time in the country’s history after finishing second in their group.
Henry believes the performances of the five nations highlight the continued growth and competitiveness of African football, with several teams proving they can challenge some of the world’s traditional powerhouses.
“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.”
Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana and Senegal have also booked spots in the next round. Bafana will face Canada on Sunday in the Round of 32 tie at 9 pm at Los Angeles Stadium in Los Angeles.