‘They scheduled it at the wrong time’ — Super Eagles star Chukwueze slams unacceptable AFCON disrespect

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has spoken out strongly in defence of the Africa Cup of Nations, insisting the tournament deserves the same respect as the World Cup and the European Championship amid ongoing controversy over its scheduling.

The Nigeria international believes criticism of AFCON often crosses the line from debate into outright disrespect for African football.

AFCON’s decision to shift from a summer tournament to a December–January window has once again placed it on a collision course with Europe’s domestic season, leaving clubs without key players at a crucial point of the campaign.

But for Chukwueze, the timing should never diminish the tournament’s value or prestige. The Fulham star said to On Sports TV, “Everybody wants to play in AFCON. It’s one of the best competitions in the world. You have to respect the AFCON the same way you respect the European Championship or World Cup.”

Chukwueze’s comments reflect a wider frustration among African players who feel the competition is often unfairly criticised, particularly by voices outside the continent.

While he acknowledges that the scheduling creates challenges, he believes the quality and importance of the tournament should never be questioned.

Nigeria’s progress in Morocco could see Chukwueze miss up to six matches for Fulham if the Super Eagles reach the round of 16, but the winger insists club concerns cannot override national duty.

“We understand they scheduled it at the wrong time of the year, but when it’s important, if you get recalled you have to go,” he said. “You don’t have any choice, your club can’t stop you and no one should say anything bad about the AFCON.”

Chukwueze was emphatic that criticism has gone too far in some quarters. “Yes, they put it at the wrong time, but saying it’s not a good competition or a great competition is unacceptable,” he added.

The 25-year-old backed his words up on the pitch by helping Nigeria secure a 2-1 opening win over Tanzania in Group C.

The Super Eagles now turn their attention to Saturday’s clash against Tunisia, aiming to build momentum in a tournament Chukwueze believes deserves far more respect than it often receives.