Watch South African poet Bothale Boikanyo welcome Arsenal legend Thierry Henry onto the pitch through a special poetry performance.
Johannesburg, South Africa (02 November 2026) – Now, here’s a beautiful moment from the Soweto Derby that has been gaining plenty of traction on social media.
South African poet Botlhale Boikanyo got the opportunity to take her poetry to one of the country’s biggest sporting stages, welcoming French and Arsenal football legend Thierry Henry onto the pitch with a special poem.
Bothale, who first captured the country’s attention at a very young age on South Africa’s Got Talent, has continued to use her voice to tell stories through poetry.
And what a moment this was, with her poem celebrating 30 years of the PSL and the footballing heroes who have shaped the game, while also paying tribute to Henry’s visit to South Africa.
It’s a pretty special full-circle moment for Bothale, who earlier this year travelled to the FIFA World Cup 2026 to champion the voices of women and girls in sport.
And it’s another reminder of just how big the Soweto Derby has become. When international football icons like Thierry Henry are part of the occasion, it speaks volumes about the recognition the fixture continues to receive.
A big moment for South African football, but also for a young poet whose voice is taking her to some incredible places.
Take a look here.
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