‘I never called Nigeria bad luck’ – Henry clears air over IShowSpeed’s shorts

French football legend Thierry Henry has dismissed claims that he disrespected Nigeria after describing the Super Eagles shorts worn by popular streamer IShowSpeed as “bad luck.”

Henry made the remark during the United States’ 4-1 win over Paraguay in their World Cup opener at Los Angeles Stadium.

The former Arsenal striker had jokingly made the comment after Paraguay pulled a goal back while IShowSpeed was seen wearing Nigeria’s shorts with a United States shirt.

The remark sparked criticism on social media, with some fans accusing Henry of insulting Nigeria and the Super Eagles.

But Henry has now clarified that the comment was only a joke about IShowSpeed mixing two different national team kits.

“I don’t think people understand when a joke is a joke,” Henry said.

“IShowSpeed had the shorts of Nigeria and the top of the US. I just told him it was bad luck to break the set. It could have been the shorts of France, Italy or Spain, I would have said the same thing.”

Henry insisted that his remark had nothing to do with Nigeria and said he has deep respect for the country.

“I was just having a little joke, not that Nigeria is bad luck, and I even said I love Naija. I have mad respect for Nigeria and the people there,” he added.

The controversy gained attention because of IShowSpeed’s huge global following and the rising interest around the ongoing World Cup in the United States.