Nigerian football icon Jay-Jay Okocha has taken a swipe at former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher over his dismissive comments about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), stating that the Englishman does not understand or appreciate African football.
In a viral interview circulating on X, Okocha did not hold back in his criticism, saying, “There are some players whose opinions you just ignore. When you look at their careers and the kind of football they played, you understand why. I mean, you wouldn’t want your son to play like Carragher. So, he can never appreciate African football or the incredible talents the continent has produced.”
Okocha’s remarks come in response to the backlash Carragher has faced following his controversial comments during a Sky Sports post-match discussion on February 23.
During the segment, Carragher downplayed the significance of AFCON while analyzing Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or. He suggested that Salah’s lack of “major tournament” victories could hinder his prospects, despite the Egyptian star finishing as AFCON runner-up in 2017 and 2021.
Carragher’s remarks were immediately challenged by fellow pundits Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge, who reminded him of AFCON’s status as Africa’s biggest football competition.
His comments sparked outrage across social media, with many fans and players accusing him of disrespecting African football.
Among those who reacted strongly was former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel, who addressed the issue on his Obi One Podcast, calling Carragher’s words “disrespectful.”
“The Africa Cup of Nations is just as big as the Euros. I’ve played in it, I’ve won it. It’s not his place to belittle AFCON. He sits there every week analyzing and coaching people on how to win the Premier League, and he never won it!” Mikel fired.
The former Chelsea star, who lifted the AFCON trophy with Nigeria in 2013, stressed the tournament’s importance in inspiring young African footballers.
“Young kids watch their idols give everything to represent their countries. Many of the African players in the Premier League today were inspired by AFCON,” he said.
Mikel, a decorated footballer with an impressive career, won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, a UEFA Champions League title (2012), and two UEFA Europa League trophies.
The debate over AFCON’s global recognition continues, but African legends like Okocha and Mikel are making it clear that the tournament’s prestige should never be questioned.