Super Eagles Boycott Training Ahead of World Cup Play-off Over Unpaid Bonuses

Nigeria’s Super Eagles and their technical crew boycotted training in Rabat on Tuesday to protest unpaid bonuses, just two days before their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa play-off semi-final against Gabon.

According to BBC Sports journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, the players and officials refused to train due to outstanding allowances dating back to 2019, including bonuses for qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup play-offs. “The full squad, including officials, withheld from training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues with outstanding payments,” a statement reportedly signed by the players and staff read. “The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparation for Thursday’s game with Gabon.”

Okeleji added that none of the players had received their bonuses and that they were “tired of empty promises.” The boycott was confirmed by sports photojournalist Sulaimon Adebayo, who is covering the team in Morocco.

The 23-man squad includes captain William Troost-Ekong, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Stanley Nwabali. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye is the only player yet to arrive.

Nigeria is set to face Gabon on Thursday at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, while Cameroon will play DR Congo in the other semi-final. Winners will advance to the final on November 16 for a place in the inter-confederation play-offs.