Thierry Henry Apologises to Nigerian Fans Over ‘Bad Luck’ Comment During US Match Broadcast

French Legend Thierry Henry has issued a public apology to Nigerian fans after remarks he made during a live World Cup broadcast triggered criticism across social media.

The controversy arose on Saturday while Henry was working as a pundit for FOX Sports alongside former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic during coverage of the United States’ 4-1 victory over Paraguay.

During the broadcast, popular content creator IShowSpeed appeared wearing Nigerian shorts paired with a United States Men’s National Team jersey.

Reacting to the outfit, Henry said, “I love Nigeria, but not today. Today is USA for you.” When IShowSpeed questioned the remark, asking what was wrong with Nigeria, Henry immediately clarified, saying, “Nigeria is great.”

However, after Paraguay scored against the United States, Henry jokingly suggested that the streamer’s mixed outfit had brought bad luck. The comment quickly drew criticism from some Nigerian football fans online, who viewed it as disrespectful.

In response to the backlash, the former Arsenal F.C. star released a video explaining the context of his remarks and insisting that no offence was intended.

“I needed to clarify something because I don’t think people understand when you say stuff sometimes or when a joke is a joke,” Henry said.

The football legend explained that his comment was directed at the combination of national team apparel rather than Nigeria itself.

“Could have been the shorts of France, Italy or Spain — I would have said the same thing.

“I even said that I love Naija. And by the way, I do. I have my respect for Nigeria and the people there, a lot of Arsenal fans out there, by the way,” he said.

“Nigeria is never bad luck. I was just saying breaking the set is bad luck with any other shorts.” He concluded.