Video: Jay-Jay Okocha Roasts Jamie Carragher Over AFCON Comments

Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha has reacted to Jamie Carragher’s recent remarks about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Okocha suggested that the former Liverpool defender lacks the knowledge to properly discuss African football.

In an interview shared on 𝕏, Okocha dismissed Carragher’s opinion. “There are some players that will say something, you just overlook it. If you look at their career, if you look at the type of football that they played, you can understand. I mean, you wouldn’t want your son to be like Carragher. So, he can never appreciate African football or the talents that come from Africa.”

Okocha’s comments were in response to Carragher’s statements during a Sky Sports discussion on February 23. While analyzing Mohamed Salah’s chances for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, Carragher questioned whether AFCON was a major tournament.

During the discussion, Carragher pointed out that Salah had not won a major international trophy, which could hurt his chances of winning the award. However, former England players Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge immediately defended AFCON. They reminded Carragher that the tournament is highly valued in African football and plays a key role in showcasing talent.

John Obi Mikel, former captain of the Nigerian national team, also weighed in during his Obi One Podcast. He strongly criticized Carragher’s remarks, saying, “The Africa Cup of Nations is as big [as the Euros]. I’ve played in it and won it. It’s not in his f*ing place to discredit the AFCON. He sits there week in, week out, teaching and coaching people on how to win the Premier League, and he never won it!”

Mikel stressed that AFCON is not just a competition but also an inspiration for young African players. He highlighted how it provides visibility for talents who dream of playing in top European leagues, including the Premier League.

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