by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 28, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
Football icon José Mourinho has hit back at Jamie Carragher after the former Liverpool defender made controversial remarks about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Mourinho, known for his sharp tongue, did not hold back in his response:
“Jamie Carragher talks too much for someone who wouldn’t even make the top 1,000 defenders in football history,” Mourinho remarked.
The former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss questioned Carragher’s authority to criticize AFCON, pointing out that he never won the Premier League.
“How can someone who never won the Premier League criticize a continental tournament like AFCON? In my opinion, AFCON is even bigger than the Premier League. He seems to forget that African players are the ones bringing more excitement and quality to European competitions.”
Mourinho’s comments have ignited debates in the football world, with many praising his defense of African football and its impact on global competitions.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 28, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer
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.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 28, 2025 | Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Young Boys Stun Nigeria’s U17 Girls with Late Equalizer
Ikenne, Nigeria – As the countdown to the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers against South Africa continues, Nigeria’s Flamingos faced a tough test in a 1-1 draw against Beyond Limits U13 boys at the Remo Stars Sports Institute on Friday.
A blistering start saw the Flamingos take an early lead in the 3rd minute when Aishat Animashaun confidently slotted home a penalty. However, the spirited Beyond Limits side refused to back down, pressing high and creating opportunities as they searched for an equalizer.
Despite the Flamingos’ dominance in possession, the young boys matched them in intensity and finally got their reward late in the game. A stunning long-range effort left the Flamingos goalkeeper helpless, ensuring that the match ended in a stalemate.
Though denied a third consecutive warm-up win, Bankole Olowookere’s team will take confidence from their attacking sharpness and defensive structure, having now scored 17 goals and conceded just two in three preparatory matches.
Earlier in camp, the Flamingos showcased their attacking prowess with a 6-1 triumph over Nakamura FA on February 22 before dismantling ANWFCC All Stars 10-0.
With the first leg of their crucial qualifier against South Africa set for March 7, the Nigerian girls remain focused on fine-tuning their strategies as they chase a World Cup ticket.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 28, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Arsenal have made a decisive move in their search for a world-class striker, officially contacting Victor Osimhen’s camp and preparing to activate his £62 million release clause.
The Nigerian forward, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has attracted interest from top European clubs, including Manchester United and Chelsea. While United are reportedly considering a swap deal involving Rasmus Hojlund, Arsenal seem ready to meet the buyout clause directly.
Osimhen, who has netted 20 goals and provided five assists in 27 appearances this season, has been praised by Fenerbahçe boss José Mourinho as a “world-class striker.” Arsenal’s need for a prolific No. 9 has become evident, with Gabriel Jesus struggling for consistency and Kai Havertz not proving clinical enough.
Nigerian journalist Buchi Laba revealed that Arsenal had discussions with Osimhen’s camp last week, alongside their long-standing interest in Benjamin Šeško. However, with only one striker expected to be signed, the Gunners must now decide between the two.
While Arsenal’s interest in Osimhen is well-documented, major news outlets have yet to confirm the latest developments. Nonetheless, with the summer transfer window approaching, a blockbuster move for the Nigerian international could be on the horizon.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 28, 2025 | Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been dealt a major setback ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. West Brom defender Semi Ajayi has suffered a recurrence of his hamstring injury, ruling him out of action for several weeks.
Ajayi, who had only just returned to the pitch after a four-month layoff, now faces another spell on the sidelines. His absence comes at a critical time for Nigeria, who are desperate for victories to revive their qualification hopes. The team has managed just three goals in their first four games, leaving them in a precarious position in the qualifiers.
New head coach Eric Chelle, who is yet to take charge of a match, now faces a selection headache. With Ajayi out, he may turn to alternatives like William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey as his primary center-back pairing. Other options include Olisa Ndah, Gabriel Osho, Kevin Akpoguma, and the experienced Kenneth Omeruo. A defender from the Nigerian Premier Football League could also be considered.
While Ajayi’s experience will be missed, Nigeria still boasts quality in defense. The question now is whether Chelle can find the right formula to secure much-needed wins against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.
