Nigeria’s hopes of securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been thrown into uncertainty after reports emerged that the Super Eagles have boycotted training ahead of their playoff clash against Gabon.
According to sources close to the team, the players refused to train due to unpaid bonuses and allowances allegedly owed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The outstanding payments are said to include match bonuses, camp allowances, and other entitlements that have piled up over several years.
The players and technical staff reportedly reached a unanimous decision to suspend training until the NFF resolves these financial issues. The standoff comes just days before their decisive fixture, raising fears about the team’s readiness and morale ahead of the high-pressure encounter.
In a statement confirming the development, the team said:
“The full squad, including officials, withheld from training today in Morocco due to unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution so they can continue preparations for Thursday’s game against Gabon.”
This latest dispute once again casts a spotlight on the recurring issue of unpaid wages and poor financial management within Nigerian football. Similar payment controversies have plagued the Super Eagles in past tournaments, often surfacing at critical moments.
With the nation’s World Cup ambitions hanging in the balance, fans and analysts are urging the NFF to move swiftly to settle the dispute and restore focus within the camp.
For now, the Super Eagles’ boycott serves as a stark reminder of the deeper administrative challenges that continue to threaten Nigeria’s footballing progress even as the team remains determined to fight for its place on the world stage.
WHAT NIGERIANS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE NFF VS. SUPER EAGLES’ SPECIAL BONUS IN MOROCCO. #PoojaInMorroco pic.twitter.com/gB7mJlW12v
— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) November 11, 2025