Super Eagles Boycott Training in Morocco Over Unpaid Bonuses

Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-off against Gabon have suffered a setback as the Super Eagles again boycotted training in Morocco over unpaid bonuses.

The players and officials reportedly refused to train in Rabat on Monday and Tuesday, citing unresolved financial issues with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Investigations show that the disagreement is not over daily allowances but the winning bonuses for the two-legged play-off. The players are demanding $15,000 per match, while the NFF insists on maintaining the $10,000 rate adopted during the administration of former president Amaju Pinnick.

A source familiar with the situation explained that the players want a review, arguing that countries like Cameroon, DR Congo, and Gabon have recently increased their own bonuses and that Nigeria should follow suit.

In a brief statement jointly issued by the players and officials, the squad confirmed the decision to stay off training.

“The full squad, including officials, withheld from training in Morocco due to unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles await a quick resolution to continue preparations for Thursday’s game with Gabon,” the statement read.

Efforts to reach NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and other senior officials were unsuccessful as of press time, though discussions are said to be ongoing to resolve the standoff.

Reports from the camp indicate that 23 players are already in Morocco, with Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye expected to join before the match. Among those in camp are Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, William Troost-Ekong, Samuel Chukwueze, and African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman.

Before the disruption, head coach Eric Chelle had commenced tactical drills focused on pressing transitions and set-piece routines. The Eagles are scheduled to face Gabon on Thursday at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, while Cameroon and DR Congo will battle in the second semi-final at El-Barid Stadium.

The winners of both ties will meet on November 16 to determine who advances to the inter-confederation play-offs for a place at the 2026 World Cup in North America.

The development once again highlights Nigeria’s recurring bonus disputes that have often disrupted the team’s build-up to crucial international matches.