Super Eagles Boycott Training Over Unpaid Bonuses Ahead of 2026 World Cup Play-Off Against Gabon

Nigeria’s World Cup preparations disrupted in Morocco as players protest years of unpaid allowances and bonuses.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have refused to take part in training in Rabat, Morocco, over unpaid bonuses and allowances — a dispute that has cast a shadow over their preparations for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa play-off semi-final against Gabon.

The players and technical staff are reportedly demanding the settlement of long-standing payments dating as far back as 2019. These include bonuses for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and reaching the World Cup play-offs.

According to sources close to the team, the squad and officials have unanimously agreed not to train until the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) fulfils its promises. In a joint statement, they expressed frustration over what they described as “empty promises” and the repeated failure of the federation to meet financial commitments.

Journalists covering the national team in Morocco confirmed the boycott, describing the atmosphere within the camp as tense and uncertain.

Preparations Disrupted

The protest has significantly affected Nigeria’s build-up to Thursday’s semi-final clash against Gabon at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat. The Super Eagles must secure victory to advance to the play-off final, where they will meet either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo. The eventual winner of the two-legged tie will progress to the intercontinental World Cup play-offs.

The current camp includes several of Nigeria’s key stars, among them captain William Troost-Ekong, prolific striker Victor Osimhen, wingers Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, midfielders Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka, as well as defenders Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is expected to join the squad later in the week.

NFF Yet to Respond

As of Wednesday, the Nigeria Football Federation had yet to issue an official statement on the matter. However, sources suggest that negotiations are ongoing behind the scenes in an attempt to defuse the crisis before matchday.

The latest boycott underscores the recurring challenges within Nigerian football — particularly concerning player welfare, transparency, and administrative accountability. Recent reports have also highlighted poor accommodation and logistical arrangements for the team in Morocco, adding to the players’ frustrations.

With just days remaining before their crucial encounter, fans are hopeful that the situation will be resolved swiftly, allowing the Super Eagles to focus entirely on the task of securing a place in the 2026 World Cup.