The Super Eagles of Nigeria have boycotted training in Morocco, just two days before their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final against Gabon, following a major fallout with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over unpaid bonuses and allowances.
In a joint statement reportedly issued by the players and team officials, the squad confirmed the protest, stating:
“The full squad, including officials, boycotted training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparations for Thursday’s game against Gabon.”
The dispute stems from the NFF’s failure to pay long-standing bonuses dating back several years, including rewards for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the ongoing World Cup playoff campaign.
23 Players in Camp, But No Training
The Super Eagles opened camp in Rabat on November 9, holding a light tactical session on Monday under new head coach Eric Chelle.
However, tensions escalated on Tuesday when players received no concrete assurances regarding the delayed payments, prompting the full-scale boycott.
This incident mirrors previous crises in Nigerian football, including the 2013 Confederations Cup standoff, when players similarly refused to train due to bonus cuts.
Despite their 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in October, which sealed their playoff berth, players have reportedly not received their qualification bonuses.
NFF Under Fire as Negotiations Begin
The NFF has not yet issued an official response, though sources indicate that emergency negotiations are ongoing to resolve the crisis before Wednesday.
In recent days, the federation also faced backlash after a video posted by Alex Iwobi surfaced online showing what fans called poor accommodation conditions in Morocco a claim the NFF has since denied.
Must-Win Clash Ahead
Nigeria’s semi-final showdown against Gabon is set for Thursday at 5:00 PM (local time) at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
A victory would see the Super Eagles advance to face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final playoff, with the winner earning a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
However, a prolonged boycott could have serious consequences, including disrupted preparation, low team morale, possible CAF sanctions, and the risk of missing the World Cup for a second consecutive cycle.
Team sources remain hopeful that the outstanding payments will be processed overnight, allowing the squad to return to training on Wednesday.
