by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 27, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
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.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 26, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Victor Osimhen stood before the reporters, his face lit up with a smile as the Galatasaray faithful chanted his name in the background. The Nigerian striker had taken the Turkish league by storm, proving his worth yet again. But as the summer transfer window loomed, questions about his future grew louder.
Juventus, one of Italy’s most storied clubs, had been keeping a close watch on him. They saw in him a potential game-changer, a striker who could lead their attack into the next era. But Osimhen, always one to live in the present, wasn’t ready to make any promises.
“At the moment, I don’t know,” he admitted when pressed about his next move. “A few months ago, no one imagined I’d be at Galatasaray. Many thought I’d leave in January. But here I am, loving every moment. The fans, the club, the president—I feel at home.”
His words were heartfelt, but they didn’t put an end to the speculation. With Napoli unwilling to let him go cheaply and several European giants circling, his future remained one of the biggest talking points in football. Would Juventus make their move, or would another club swoop in?
For now, Osimhen’s focus was on enjoying his time in Turkey. But come summer, the battle for his signature was sure to be fierce.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 26, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
The football community has been shaken by the tragic death of former Wikki Tourists striker, Abubakar Lawal, in Uganda. Lawal, who also played for Nasarawa United and Vipers SC, reportedly fell from a balcony at the Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Uganda on February 24, 2025. However, conflicting reports surrounding the incident have cast doubt on the true circumstances of his demise.
Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, has called for an urgent and thorough investigation, urging the Nigerian government and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to take action.
“It is saddened to receive the news of Abubakar Lawal. The news was a shocking one, which prompted me to ask further questions and seek clarification,” Musa expressed on his X (formerly Twitter) page.
According to Musa, two different accounts of the incident have emerged—one suggesting it was an accident, while the other claims he fell from a balcony under unclear circumstances. Concerned by these inconsistencies, the former Leicester City forward has reached out to Nigerian authorities and the NFF, calling for immediate intervention.
“The contradicting reports suggest something suspicious about his demise, and I have been in contact with the Nigerian authority and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) calling their attention to this fatal case in Uganda,” he added.
Musa also urged collaboration between the Nigerian government, the NFF, and Ugandan authorities to ensure justice for Lawal.
“Lawal’s soul deserves a thorough investigation, and justice must be served if anyone is found guilty,” he insisted.
Meanwhile, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has already demanded an autopsy and a full-scale investigation into the incident. Ugandan police have also confirmed that an inquiry is underway, reviewing CCTV footage and witness statements to uncover the truth behind Lawal’s tragic passing.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 26, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
A new chapter begins at Ibrox as Rangers legend Barry Ferguson takes the helm, following Philippe Clement’s departure. The former captain, who made nearly 300 league appearances for the club, is determined to reignite the team’s fighting spirit.
One of the players Ferguson has publicly backed is Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers. Despite a challenging start to the season, the Nigerian forward has found his form, scoring 18 goals and providing six assists in 40 appearances.
“Listen, he’s scored two goals in two games, 22 goals last year, and I don’t think you can get rid of him,” Ferguson stated via Rangers Review. “Sometimes he lacks that bit of quality, but if he had that quality, he’d be playing in a different league.”
As Rangers prepare to face Kilmarnock, Ferguson has called on his players to embrace the high standards expected at the club. “You have to win every game with the demands and expectations here,” he emphasized.
With Rangers trailing Celtic by 16 points, Ferguson’s tenure is set to bring tactical adjustments, but Dessers looks likely to remain a key figure in his plans.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 26, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Nigeria’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been anything but smooth. The Super Eagles, once considered favorites, now find themselves in a precarious position after a string of disappointing results.
With just three points from four matches, Nigeria lags four points behind group leaders South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin. A shock defeat to Benin and draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa have left fans frustrated and desperate for a turnaround.
In response, the Nigeria Football Federation has entrusted Franco-Malian coach Eric Chelle with the task of reviving the team. Chelle, who guided Mali to the AFCON quarterfinals, inherits a squad brimming with attacking talent, including Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman.
Despite their struggles, South Africa’s head coach Hugo Broos remains confident that Nigeria can bounce back. Speaking to ScoreNigeria, he admitted:
“I am surprised that Nigeria are four points behind us because they have too much quality. I believe they will come back by the next window.”
With crucial fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March, the Super Eagles must deliver victories to stay in contention. Meanwhile, South Africa will look to solidify their position with matches against Lesotho and Benin.
The pressure is on. Can Eric Chelle turn things around and lead Nigeria back on the path to World Cup qualification? March will be decisive.
