The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reiterated that the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is a major tournament after it was downplayed by Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher.
Carragher dismissed the tournament while discussing Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or this year.
Speaking on Sky Sports after Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Sunday, Carragher suggested that Salah’s nationality and Egypt’s international record could hinder his chances of claiming football’s top individual award.
“I think the problem [is] the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in the major tournament as such or maybe got a great chance of winning,” Carragher said.
“I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament. Normally, the player who excels in that, like Vini Jr. and (Kylian) Mbappe right now, Real Madrid looking really good going for the Champions League.”
“I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament.
His remarks immediately sparked backlash with former Manchester City defender Micah Richards swiftly correcting him that AFCON is indeed a prestigious tournament.
“Just to say, AFCON is a major tournament because a lot of people are at home saying ‘they aren’t taking it seriously’. AFCON is a big tournament just so you know.”
Carragher responded by questioning whether Egypt would be contenders for the World Cup, implying that it is only the biggest international competitions that influence the Ballon d’Or race.
However, Sturridge shut down the argument, saying, “If you win the Euros or Copa America, it’s deemed to be big, so the AFCON is on the same level.”
Reacting, CAF shared a post on X with photos to show AFCON’s importance.
