Super Eagles legend, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, has fired back at former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher over his controversial remark downplaying the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Carragher, while speaking on a football podcast, had claimed that the AFCON tournament is “not a major competition” when comparing it to the European Championship and Copa America.
His comment, however, sparked backlash from many African football legends, with Okocha delivering a savage clapback.
Responding to Carragher, Okocha said:
“You wouldn’t want your son to play like Jamie Carragher.”
The former PSG midfielder’s reply was a subtle dig at Carragher, who despite making 508 Premier League appearances for Liverpool, only managed to score three goals throughout his career.
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Okocha, widely regarded as one of the most skillful African players of all time, further emphasized the importance of the AFCON, stating that the tournament has produced some of the greatest football talents in history.
The AFCON remains Africa’s biggest football showpiece, with top players like George Weah, Samuel Eto’o, Didier Drogba, and Okocha himself gracing the tournament.
Carragher’s comments have been widely condemned by fans and football stars, with many reminding him of the quality of African players who have excelled in the Premier League and beyond.