Thierry Henry praises ‘special’ atmosphere at Soweto Derby

Thierry Henry says the atmosphere at the Soweto Derby was unlike anything he has experienced at other major football rivalries around the world.

The former Arsenal and France striker attended the fixture as a special guest and Betway brand ambassador as Orlando Pirates defeated Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 at FNB Stadium in the Betway Premiership on Saturday, October 31.

Henry was involved in the pre-match ceremony, carrying the match ball on to the pitch before kick-off as thousands of supporters filled the stadium in the colours of the two Soweto rivals.

He also presented a R30 000 cash prize to a Pirates supporter through Betway’s S’bonise & Win campaign. The fan had shown their support for the Buccaneers by wearing Pirates colours and regalia.

Reflecting on the occasion, Henry said the passion in the stands and the shared experience of supporters had made the derby particularly memorable.

> “The Soweto Derby was an incredible experience. I’ve been fortunate to experience some of the biggest football rivalries around the world, but there is something truly special about the energy here. From the singing and chanting in the stands and team colours worn with pride, you could feel how much football means to South Africans. Seeing Pirates and Chiefs fans side by side, passionately supporting their teams while sharing the occasion together, really stood out for me. It’s a unique football culture and an experience I’ll remember for a long time.”

The visit gave Henry the opportunity to experience one of African football’s biggest fixtures, while Betway said it also provided a platform to present South African football culture to an international audience.

Jason Shield, Betway Africa Head of Sponsorship, said the derby reflected the strength of the game in the country and that supporters had been central to the occasion.

> “The Soweto Derby is one of those occasions that shows the very best of South African football, from the passion in the stands to the rivalry on the pitch. Bringing Thierry into that experience gave us an opportunity to showcase the incredible football culture we have in this country on a global stage. Through S’bonise & Win, we were also able to put supporters at the centre of the occasion and reward the passion they bring to the Betway Premiership week after week.”

The derby took place as the PSL celebrates 30 years of professional football in South Africa.

Its enduring appeal continues to underline the significance of Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs in the country’s sporting landscape, with the latest meeting combining a fiercely contested match with the colour and traditions associated with the fixture.