Kenya legend Wanyama hails Mustafa Kizza’s dead-ball brilliance, credits Thierry Henry influence

Kenyan legend Victor Wanyama has showered praise on Ugandan left-back Mustafa Kizza, describing him as one of the finest set-piece specialists in East Africa, in remarks shared via PitchSide.

The two developed a strong bond during their time at Major League Soccer outfit Montreal Impact (now called CF Montreal), where Wanyama arrived in March 2020 under the guidance of Arsenal great Thierry Henry.

After scoring the wonder goal against Shabana ,here is why Nairobi United Leftback Mustafa Kizza dedicated the goal to former Harambee Stars Captain Victor Wanyama#FootballKE pic.twitter.com/PCqhFzbMax

— The Truthful Men (@Dollar__SM) April 7, 2026

Interestingly, Wanyama revealed that Henry had already identified Kizza as a standout talent even before the Kenyan midfielder joined the club.

According to Wanyama, Henry personally endorsed the Ugandan defender, highlighting his unique qualities and pushing for his recruitment, a signal that immediately raised expectations.

Upon linking up in Canada, Wanyama says it didn’t take long to see why Kizza was so highly rated.

Their chemistry on and off the pitch quickly flourished, with the former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder applauding Kizza’s work ethic, adaptability, and impact in training sessions and matches alike.

Powerful like a lion 🦁@VictorWanyama double notre avance.#MTLvTOR | 3-1 | #CFMTL pic.twitter.com/TmHCPXFHmM

— CF Montréal (@cfmontreal) April 17, 2021

Now 34, Wanyama who recently announced his retirement placed Kizza among the very best he has encountered from the region, particularly emphasizing his technical ability and delivery from dead-ball situations.

He noted that Kizza possesses the rare ability to whip in crosses from virtually any area on the pitch and consistently create scoring opportunities, even from deep positions.

Despite having played alongside several top Ugandan names such as Denis Onyango, Khalid Aucho, Hassan Wasswa, and Tony Mawejje, Wanyama singled out Kizza as truly exceptional.

While he acknowledged Onyango’s legendary status on the continent, Wanyama stressed that Kizza’s unique qualities make him stand out among his peers, with Aucho also earning praise for his consistency in midfield.

Since leaving MLS, Kizza has continued his career in Kenya with Nairobi United, while his relationship with Wanyama remains strong beyond their playing days.

The pair are reportedly exploring plans to organize a charity match in Kampala later this June, further underlining their lasting friendship.