Nigeria’s Super Eagles have boycotted training sessions barely 48 hours before their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon, citing unresolved issues over unpaid bonuses and allowances.
The entire squad, including coaching and support staff, refused to participate in Tuesday’s scheduled training in Rabat, Morocco, where the team is preparing for Thursday’s semi-final clash. The players are demanding the payment of outstanding bonuses reportedly dating back to 2019, including rewards for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the current World Cup playoff series.
A source within the team revealed that the players are requesting $15,000 as a winning bonus for each playoff match, totalling $30,000 for the two matches expected to be played. “The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has proposed a reduced amount of $10,000 per match”, says the source, “which the players have rejected”. Until a satisfactory agreement is reached, the team has vowed not to resume training.
The boycott has cast a shadow over Nigeria’s preparations for the high-stakes encounter against Gabon, a match that could determine the Super Eagles’ path to the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Adding to the tension, midfielder Alex Iwobi shared a video on social media highlighting the substandard lodging conditions in Morocco, further fueling criticism of the NFF’s handling of the team’s welfare.
The NFF has yet to issue an official statement regarding the boycott. However, sources indicate that emergency discussions are underway to resolve the impasse and ensure the team’s readiness for Thursday’s pivotal match.