Former Nigerian international, Sam Sodje, has strongly criticised ex-Liverpool defender, Jamie Carragher, over his recent remarks on the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing them as “disrespectful” and unnecessary.
Carragher had dismissed the AFCON as a major tournament, following the Reds’ 2-0 win at Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.
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Reacting to Carragher’s comments, Sodje, a former Reading player, expressed his shock and disbelief, emphasising that AFCON deserves the same respect as other continental tournaments.
“I have a lot of respect for former footballers and take their views seriously. That’s why I was shocked to see Carragher talk down on AFCON, a tournament that brings together Africa’s best talents,” Sodje stated.
He argued that AFCON, despite not having the same financial backing or television coverage as some other tournaments, remains a competition of global significance.
“FIFA regards all continental tournaments as equal. AFCON is as important to Africans as the European Championships is to Europeans,” he pointed out.
Sodje also dismissed any need for validation from European pundits. “Africans don’t need Carragher’s approval to enjoy AFCON. If he and others with a similar mindset don’t appreciate it, they should keep their opinions to themselves.”
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