Former Arsenal player Thierry Henry has said the Super Eagles’ performance at the USA 1994 World Cup and the exceptional display of Nigerian players he had played with availed him the opportunity to know Nigeria.
Henry, who is the ‘Made of Black Ambassador’ to the Guinness Nigeria shared memories about his relationship with Nigerian ex-internationals like Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba, among others.
He also described Kanu as technique player which partnership on the field of play was unforgettable.
It was fun and excitement at the Landmark Events in Lagos as football fans thronged the premises to ‘Watch a Match with Thierry Henry’.
Fans watched the day’s English Premiership Match between West Brom and Manchester United at the venue which ended 1-2 in favour of Man U.
In attendance were ex-internationals including Ikpeba, Peter Rufai, Mutiu Adepoju, Finidi George, and Austin Eguavoen.
In a chat with newsmen, Henry said, “Happy to be first time in Nigeria, I have met with Kanu, Ikpeba, they always say you have to go (Nigeria) they love the game there, I knew that for a fact, I grew up watching the Super Eagles that in 1994 and before that a lot of Nigerians played in France, Siasia, late Stephen Keshi.
“When those guys played that was how I knew Nigeria but they played in France and did well and the Super Eagles backed it up in 1994 World Cup”.
He said Kanu remains the best in Africa in terms of techniques, adding,” Kanu is always happy, positive. He was really good, very good. Everyone knew it. He was very calm, just unbelievable. It was a privilege playing with him”.
Speaking at the event where Henry watched an English Premier League match with his fan in Lagos, the Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria, Peter Ndegwa stated that they brought the France born player to celebrate the unique passion for football among fans in Nigeria.
“We are proud to have him as an ambassador of our Made of Black programme.
“Henry carved his own path to bring his creative flair to the game, he worked hard to demonstrate his skills and ability; ultimately changing the way game was played in England and showing that he was truly Made of Black. He is an inspirational ambassador for our Made of Black of campaign,” he said.
