A Champion’s Fury: Mikel Obi Defends AFCON Against Carragher’s Remarks

Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has launched a scathing response to ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, following the latter’s dismissive comments about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

It all began during Monday Night Football, when Carragher expressed concerns that Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or could be hampered by Egypt’s absence from a so-called “major tournament.” His words sparked immediate reactions from Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge, who swiftly reminded him that AFCON is Africa’s premier competition—on par with the Euros and Copa América. However, Carragher scoffed at the comparison, setting off a firestorm.

Mikel, speaking on his Obi One Podcast, didn’t hold back in his rebuttal. The 2013 AFCON winner, clearly furious, slammed Carragher for undermining a tournament that carries immense significance for millions across Africa.

“You can’t sit there and talk like that,” Mikel fumed. “We talk about inclusion in society, but how about inclusion in the world? We’re trying to change perceptions, and yet someone with such a massive platform discredits a whole continent’s tournament.”

Mikel didn’t stop there. He pointed out that Carragher, despite spending years at Liverpool, never won the Premier League, yet often critiques others on how to win it. The Nigerian legend went on to highlight the emotional and cultural importance of AFCON.

“Africans tune in to watch. They don’t have money to eat, but they watch the Premier League. They watch you every weekend, and then you sit there and dismiss what they hold dear? That’s unacceptable.”

Referencing African football greats like George Weah—Africa’s only Ballon d’Or winner—Mikel emphasized how AFCON inspires young talents across the continent.

“Children grow up watching their idols in AFCON, dreaming of representing their nations. It’s a tournament people die for, a competition that fuels the next generation of African stars who grace the Premier League and Europe,” he declared.

As the debate rages on, Mo Salah remains a key figure in Liverpool’s title challenge, with a stunning tally of 30 goals and 22 assists this season. With AFCON 2025 set for December, the Egyptian star could yet prove that Africa’s premier tournament deserves every ounce of respect.