Former Algeria international Adlène Guédioura has defended the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in response to comments made by former England and Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher.
Taking to social media platform X, Guédioura addressed Carragher directly, emphasizing the significance of the tournament.
“Jamie, AFCON is major. Africa is BIG. You never lived this,” he wrote, accompanied by Algeria’s national flag and a trophy emoji.
Guédioura’s post came in reaction to Carragher’s remarks about AFCON, which sparked debate among football fans and professionals.
The tournament, widely regarded as the pinnacle of African football, has often been subjected to scrutiny, particularly in discussions about its scheduling and impact on European clubs.
As a key figure in Algeria’s 2019 AFCON-winning squad, Guédioura has first-hand experience of the tournament’s prestige and intensity.
Jamie
AFCON is Major
Africa is BIG
You never lived this..
🇩🇿🏆 pic.twitter.com/r7Xs1V5ZB2— Adlene GUEDIOURA (@AdleneGUEDIOURA) February 25, 2025
His statement reflects a sentiment shared by many African footballers, who view the competition as a defining stage in their careers.
The AFCON debate has been a recurring topic, with some figures in European football questioning its timing, while players and supporters continue to highlight its rich history and cultural significance.
Guédioura’s response adds to the growing voices pushing for greater recognition and respect for African football’s premier competition.
