Unpacking the Controversy: Exploring the Row Between Carragher and the Africa Cup of Nations

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Image caption: Mohamed Salah has lost two Afcon finals with Egypt.

Published on February 25, 2025

A heated debate erupted on social media following a comment made by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher regarding the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). The controversy began when Carragher suggested that Afcon was not considered a “major tournament,” sparking discussions about its importance in world football. BBC Sport delves into the issues surrounding this statement and explores what others have said on the matter.

What did Carragher say?

During Liverpool’s 2-0 Premier League victory against Manchester City, pundits in the Sky Sports studio were discussing Mohamed Salah’s performance and potential for a “greatest” individual campaign. The conversation then shifted to Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or, a prestigious annual award for the world’s best player.

Carragher expressed that for Salah to secure the Ballon d’Or, he would need to win either the Champions League or another “major tournament.” According to Carragher, Afcon is not recognized as such by voters. He further stated that if Egypt fails to win a major international competition like the Champions League or World Cup, it will have negative implications for Salah’s Ballon d’Or chances.

What Others Have Said

The statement ignited discussions on social media and among football analysts about the perceived respect and importance of Afcon. Many argued that Carragher’s comment belittled a significant tournament in African football, which holds great value to many players from the continent.

Ian Wright, former Arsenal player turned sports journalist, commented: “Some media coverage of Afcon is tinged with racism. Is there ever a tournament more disrespected than the Africa Cup of Nations?”

The Context and Significance of Afcon

Legends such as Samuel Eto’o, Yaya Touré, and Didier Drogba have filled their trophy cabinets with medals from European club football. However, for many African players like Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Riyad Mahrez, Afcon holds immense significance.

The tournament is celebrated not just for the glamour of winning it but also for overcoming challenges in tough conditions against smaller nations. For instance, even some top-tier talents have failed to win Afcon despite playing in golden generations. Mohamed Salah lost the finals twice—in 2017 and 2021—experiencing immense devastation.

The Future of Afcon

While there are persistent issues with organization, infrastructure, security, and timing that have affected previous editions of Afcon, organizers argue that interest in the tournament is increasing globally. Recent examples include Egypt hosting a well-received edition in 2019 and Morocco’s upcoming tournament being anticipated as one of the most competitive yet.

Conclusion

The debate surrounding Jamie Carragher’s comment serves to highlight ongoing issues around respect for Afcon and its place in world football. Despite challenges, there is a growing recognition that African players’ performances at Afcon should be valued equally alongside achievements in European competitions like the Champions League or World Cup.