Pinnick Fires Back at Carragher: AFCON Deserves Respect!

Former Nigeria Football Federation NFF president Amaju Pinnick has hit back at ex Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher for his dismissive remarks about the Africa Cup of Nations AFCON.

Carragher ignited backlash after suggesting AFCON lacks significance compared to other major international tournaments leading to criticism from several african football figures including John Mikel Obi, Emmanuel Emenike and Jay Jay Okocha.

Pinnick Calls Carragher’s Opinion “Myopic”

Pinnick, now Executive Council member of the Confederation of African Football CAF, labeled Carragher’s statement as “myopic” and stressed AFCON’s global importance.

“I think it's very myopic opinion … AFCON's growing beyond the imagination of so many people” Pinnick said on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa.

He referenced George Weah’s 1995 Ballon d’or win pointing out that Liberia didn't even qualify for AFCON that year, yet Weah’s stellar performances with AC Milan earned him the award.

AFCON’s Prestige on the Rise

Pinnick highlighted Mohamed Salah’s incredible season with 30 goal and 22 assist in 39 game, emphasizing that AFCON remains prestigious goal for top African players.

“African players know how important it's to win the Africa Cup of Nations … the medal and trophy alone is something every player will cherish” Pinnick added.

He also urged Carragher to watch AFCON 2025 in Morocco, predicting it'll surpass the last edition in Ivory Coast in terms of quality and excitement.