Former Cameroon captain Benjamin Moukandjo has fiercely criticized Jamie Carragher for his remarks about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), calling them “shocking” and dismissive of the tournament’s significance to African footballers.
A disrespectful take on AFCON
The AFCON is regarded as more than just a continental competition—it represents history, pride, and unity for African nations.
However, Carragher, the former Liverpool defender turned pundit, sparked controversy with his comments suggesting that the tournament lacks the prestige required for a player to win the Ballon d’Or.
His words have been widely condemned, with Moukandjo among those who have forcefully responded.
Moukandjo defends the importance of AFCON
The 2017 AFCON-winning captain emphasized that the competition holds immense value for African players, often ranking above individual accolades.
He referenced George Weah, the only African footballer to have won the Ballon d’Or, as an example of someone who deeply understands the tournament’s significance.
“When you ask George Weah, he will tell you that he is ready to exchange his Ballon d’Or for an Africa Cup of Nations title. That alone tells you what AFCON means to us Africans,” Moukandjo said while speaking on beIN Sports.
A harmful message for African footballers
Moukandjo was particularly concerned about the impact Carragher’s words could have on young African players.
He believes the former England international’s remarks send a dangerous message that playing for their country is a disadvantage rather than an honor.
“All the kids who play football in Africa dream of winning an AFCON. So when Carragher tells these youngsters that playing for their country will not help them win a Ballon d’Or, it is shocking.
It suggests that being African is a disadvantage,” Moukandjo stated.
His comments highlight how European perspectives on African football can sometimes undermine the aspirations of young talents on the continent.
For many, AFCON represents the pinnacle of their international careers and a defining moment in their legacy.
African football’s growing global recognition
Moukandjo’s passionate defense of AFCON reflects a wider frustration with the lack of respect African football continues to face on the global stage.
The recent performances of African nations at the FIFA World Cup, along with the increasing presence of African players in top European leagues, demonstrate the continent’s undeniable impact on the sport.
Carragher’s comments have reignited the debate over how African football is perceived internationally.
However, voices like Moukandjo’s serve as a reminder that AFCON remains a tournament of immense importance, not only for Africa but for world football as a whole.
