Thierry Henry names Senegal and Norway as 2026 World Cup dark horses
Former France striker Thierry Henry has tipped Senegal and Norway to be surprise contenders at the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America.
The Arsenal legend believes his home nation are the heavy favourites to win the tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
However, the 1998 winner warned that Les Bleus face a demanding path after being drawn in a challenging group alongside both of his highlighted dark horses.
Squad depth key for French hopes
Didier Deschamps will lead the two-time world champions into another major international tournament with intense expectations.
Henry feels the sheer quality available to the 57-year-old manager sets the current squad apart from their global rivals.
“I see France as the top contender – partly because I’m French, but also because we’ve reached the last two finals.”
“If your substitutes are on par with the starting eleven, it’s a huge advantage, especially in such a long tournament after an intense season.”
Dangerous outsiders pose a threat
Despite naming established giants like Argentina, Spain and England as promising candidates, the former Barcelona forward focused his praise on two less heralded nations.
He urged supporters to keep a close eye on the recent African champions and a resilient Scandinavian outfit.
“Senegal has always been a country with special players, they just couldn’t get over the line by winning an AFCON.”
“It’s been done since, and since that 2002 team they’ve never looked back.”
Historical rivalries add pressure
The television pundit noted that facing the Lions of Teranga carries historical weight and provides significant additional motivation for their opponents.
“Beating France is something massive for them.”
He drew parallels to the 1990 tournament, warning that starting slowly against highly motivated underdogs can prove fatal.
“Norway is also in our group, and those are the two teams I’ve told everybody to watch out for.”
While Senegal have never progressed beyond the quarter-finals on the global stage, Henry remains convinced they possess the necessary talent to shock the established footballing order.