Ola Akinwunmi
Football pundit and former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has sparked controversy after reportedly referring to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as “not a major tournament.” His remark has drawn widespread criticism from fans, players, and fellow commentators, who view it as dismissive of Africa’s premier football competition.
Established in 1957, AFCON is the continent’s most prestigious football tournament, providing a platform for Africa’s top talents to showcase their skills on an international stage. The competition has played a vital role in shaping global football, producing legendary players and memorable moments.
Carragher’s comment has been slammed as “disrespectful” and “ignorant” by many in the football community. Critics argue that such statements undermine AFCON’s importance and the achievements of African nations in the sport.
This isn’t the first time Carragher has faced backlash over his stance on AFCON. In January 2024, he was criticized for asking Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah a controversial question regarding his tournament participation. During a post-match interview, Carragher implied a preference for club commitments over national duty by asking Salah how quickly he would return from AFCON. The question was widely condemned, with fans and commentators emphasizing the tournament’s deep significance to African players and their countries.
His recent remarks have reignited discussions about the global perception of African football in sports media. Many are calling for greater respect and recognition of tournaments like AFCON, which play a crucial role in the development and celebration of football talent worldwide.
As the debate continues, it serves as a reminder of the need to value all international competitions and the diverse football cultures they represent within the global sporting community.