A Football War of Words: African Legends Defend AFCON

The football world is no stranger to heated debates, but this time, it’s Africa’s finest taking a stand. It all began when former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher made a statement downplaying the significance of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the Ballon d’Or race.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher claimed that even if Mohamed Salah won AFCON and was named Player of the Tournament, it would still not elevate his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or. His argument? AFCON doesn’t carry the same weight as the Euros or Copa América.

As expected, his comments didn’t sit well with African football legends, leading to a swift and fiery response.

Okocha Fires First Shot

Nigerian legend Austin Jay-Jay Okocha wasted no time in dismantling Carragher’s argument, delivering a sharp response that also took a dig at the ex-England defender’s playing career.

“There are some players you just have to ignore when they speak,” Okocha said. “If you look at the type of football they played, then you understand. I mean… you won’t want your son to play like Carragher. So you can never appreciate African football or the talents that come from Africa.”

Mikel Obi’s Fiery Response

Former Chelsea midfielder and 2013 AFCON winner John Mikel Obi took his reaction up a notch. Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, Mikel didn’t hold back:

“I don’t care what he says, I’ve played in it, I’ve won it. It’s not his f**king place to discredit the African Cup of Nations. I am angry. He spent so many years playing for Liverpool and didn’t win the Premier League, and he sits there week in, week out, trying to tell people how to win the league.”

Mikel’s frustration stemmed from a deeper issue—the global perception of African football.

“Africans tune in to watch. They don’t have money to eat, but they watch the Premier League. They watch you on the weekend, and you sit there to discredit the whole African continent, saying it has no value because it’s not the Euros or Copa America? He can f**k off.”

Ahmed Musa Joins the Debate

Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa also voiced his discontent, demanding respect for AFCON and its rich footballing legacy.

Carragher later attempted to clarify his stance on X (formerly Twitter), stating that Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or were naturally limited because playing for Egypt put him at a disadvantage compared to players from football powerhouses.

However, the damage was done, and the debate over AFCON’s global recognition rages on.