By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: Former Super Eagles defender Sam Sodje has hit back at ex-Liverpool star Jamie Carragher over his remarks dismissing the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a minor tournament, urging him to “mind his business” and respect Africa’s premier football competition.
Carragher had downplayed AFCON’s significance following Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City, a statement that drew sharp criticism from African football fans and ex-players.
Reacting to the comments, Sodje, a former Reading FC defender and a board member of the Delta State Football Association (DSFA), said he was disappointed by Carragher’s condescending tone.
“I have a lot of respect for former footballers and usually take their views seriously, but I was shocked by Carragher’s comments,” Sodje said. “AFCON is a tournament that brings together Africa’s best talents, just like the European Championship does for Europe.”
He emphasized that the tournament remains highly competitive, despite not enjoying the same financial backing and global media coverage as European competitions.
“FIFA recognizes all continental tournaments as equal. AFCON is as important to Africans as the Euros are to Europeans,” Sodje added.
Dismissing any need for validation from European pundits, Sodje insisted that Africans do not need Carragher’s approval to appreciate their football heritage.
“Africans don’t need Carragher or anyone else to tell them whether or not to enjoy AFCON. If he doesn’t rate it, he should keep his opinion to himself,” Sodje said.
Invoking a popular Nigerian phrase, Sodje advised Carragher to “dey your dey” (mind your business) and let African football thrive without unwarranted criticism.