Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Fireboy DML has fired back at football pundit Jamie Carragher over his controversial dismissal of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), saying the tournament means everything to Africans and that Carragher’s opinion doesn’t matter.
Speaking on the 90s Baby Show, Fireboy, born Adedamola Adefolahan, didn’t mince words when asked about Carragher’s claim that AFCON is “not a major tournament.”
“AFCON is a major tournament to Africans and I think that’s what matters,” he said.
He added with a shrug, “Why should it matter what Jamie Carragher thinks? Carragher loves to talk. That’s how he makes his money. Leave that guy abeg.”
The Peru and Bandana hitmaker echoed the sentiments of many Africans who feel that the continent’s football achievements are routinely downplayed on the global stage.
“As a Nigerian and African football fanatic, it means a lot to me. I watch every AFCON game. It’s special. And it’s like that for millions of other Africans too,” Fireboy said, urging the continent to take pride and invest in its footballing future:
“Let us build our own structure and make it better.”
Carragher’s Controversial Take
The Liverpool legend sparked outrage after claiming AFCON doesn’t hold much weight in the Ballon d’Or conversation, even suggesting that winning it wouldn’t be enough for a player like Mohamed Salah to clinch the award.
Despite apologising on social media and admitting he was “clumsy” with his wording, Carragher later doubled down on CBS Sports, stating:
“There’s five major tournaments besides the World Cup… but some of them don’t resonate with the people who vote for the Ballon d’Or.”
His comments drew sharp criticism from African football icons like Jay-Jay Okocha, Mikel Obi, and Emmanuel Adebayor and Fireboy’s clapback is the latest to add fuel to the fire.
For many fans and stars alike, Carragher’s remarks were yet another reminder of the need for the global football community to respect Africa’s contributions and legacy in the sport.
