The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has refused to train in Rabat, Morocco, because of unpaid bonuses. The boycott threatens their preparation for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa play‑off semi‑final against Gabon. Players and technical staff are demanding payment of outstanding sums reportedly owed since 2019, including bonuses for reaching the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and qualifying for the World Cup play‑offs. In a joint statement, the squad and officials said they will not train until these issues are resolved, accusing the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) of making “empty promises.”
Journalists covering the camp have confirmed the boycott and noted the tense atmosphere. Nigeria must win the semi‑final on November 13 at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat to advance to the playoff final, where the winner will face either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo for a spot in the intercontinental World Cup play‑offs. The current squad in Morocco includes captain William Troost‑Ekong, forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, midfielders Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka, and defenders Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi.
The NFF has not issued a formal public response, although negotiations are reportedly ongoing behind the scenes. This dispute highlights broader concerns about player welfare and federation transparency in Nigerian football, exacerbated by earlier reports of poor accommodation conditions for the team in Morocco. The handling of player payments and welfare has been under scrutiny, with worries about its impact on morale and performance.
With the semi‑final against Gabon only days away, the boycott has significant implications for Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign. The NFF must resolve the outstanding payment issues promptly to ensure the Super Eagles can participate in the upcoming match. The outcome will be closely watched by football fans and stakeholders as the team strives to secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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