The build-up to Nigeria’s crucial 2026 World Cup playoff clash against Gabon has been thrown into turmoil as the Super Eagles players and officials reportedly boycotted training in Morocco on Tuesday over unpaid bonuses and allowances.
According to multiple reports, including one from Nigerian sports journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, the entire squad — players and technical staff — refused to take part in their scheduled training session, citing frustration over unresolved payment issues that date as far back as 2019.
It was gathered that none of the Super Eagles players have received their due allowances or bonuses for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and reaching the ongoing World Cup playoff stage.
The players, sources say, have grown weary of repeated unfulfilled promises from football authorities and are demanding immediate action before resuming preparations for Thursday’s decisive encounter against Gabon.
“This is not funny at all… Jeez,” Okeleji posted on X (formerly Twitter) while breaking the news of the standoff.
READ ALSO: 21 Super Eagles Arrive Marrakesh for World Cup Playoff Prep
The development comes just two days before Nigeria’s must-win fixture, which is expected to determine the team’s qualification fate for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As of press time, officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are yet to issue a statement addressing the situation, which has sparked outrage among fans and raised fresh concerns over the management of players’ welfare.
The Super Eagles are currently camped in Morocco, where they are expected to face Gabon on Thursday in the playoff tie.