Ernst Middendorp Questions Thierry Henry’s Silence On Soweto Derby Football Quality

Former Kaizer Chiefs head coach Ernst Middendorp has questioned legendary former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry over his assessment of the recent Soweto Derby, arguing that the French football icon failed to provide an opinion on the actual quality of football displayed by Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.

Henry was among several prominent international football personalities who attended the highly anticipated Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium. The encounter attracted enormous attention, with thousands of supporters filling the stadium to witness one of Africa’s most celebrated football rivalries.

Although Henry reportedly praised the overall occasion and atmosphere surrounding the match, Middendorp believes his observations were incomplete because they did not address the performances of the two teams on the pitch.

Speaking to KickOff, the experienced German tactician acknowledged Henry’s positive assessment but questioned why he had not offered a technical evaluation of the encounter.

“Great assessment of the event by Thierry Henry, but what did he say about the soccer that was played on the day?” Middendorp asked.

He further explained that he had expected someone with Henry’s experience at the highest level of football to provide an insightful analysis of the match.

“It would have been good to hear something from Thierry Henry, but I haven’t found any quote by him saying even one word about the match itself,” he added.

The Soweto Derby ended in a 2-1 victory for Orlando Pirates, who continued their impressive league campaign by collecting maximum points against their bitter rivals. The Buccaneers found the net twice, while Kaizer Chiefs managed one goal but ultimately suffered another disappointing derby defeat.

Middendorp’s comments have sparked an interesting discussion about the importance of technical analysis when international football personalities attend major African football events.

While the atmosphere, passionate supporters and organisation of the Soweto Derby deserve recognition, the tactical decisions, individual performances and overall quality of football are equally important.

His remarks have therefore shifted some attention towards what Henry thought about the actual contest, rather than simply the spectacle surrounding it.

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