Super Eagles' preparation for their crucial World Cup qualifying playoff against Gabon has been hampered by another row over unpaid bonuses
Tension has hit the Super Eagles camp just hours before their crucial World Cup playoff against Gabon, as reports emerge that players have boycotted training over unpaid bonuses.
The controversy comes at a critical time when Nigeria’s qualification hopes hang by a thread, and fans are now left fearing the worst.
Players stage boycott in Morocco
According to reports from respected journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, the entire Super Eagles squad, including officials, refused to train in Morocco due to unresolved payment issues.
In his post on X, Okeleji revealed, “2026 World Cup playoff: Nigeria players & officials boycott training in bonus row.
"The full squad including officials boycott training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues with outstanding payments.
"Awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparation for Thursday’s game.”
His statement immediately sparked national outrage, with many Nigerians once again lamenting the country’s recurring administrative troubles in football management.
Journalists and fans call out the NFF
Adding his voice to the growing frustration, journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, described the situation as another episode of Nigeria’s self-inflicted chaos.
“Nigeria’s greatest adversary in football is Nigeria,” he wrote, before calling on the NFF to “pay them” and end the embarrassment.
The timing could not be worse with less than 48 hours left before a decisive clash that could determine Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup fate. After failing to top their group earlier in qualifying, the Super Eagles now face Gabon in a tense playoff in Rabat.
With preparations disrupted and morale shaken, fans can only hope the situation is swiftly resolved before kickoff.
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