Super Eagles Boycott Training Ahead of Crucial World Cup Clash with Gabon
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 12 — 11
Tension has hit the Super Eagles’ camp in Rabat, Morocco, just days before their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon, as players and officials reportedly boycotted training over unpaid bonuses and allowances.
According to reports, the team refused to train on Tuesday, citing years of outstanding payments owed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The protest comes at a sensitive time, with Nigeria just two wins away from sealing a ticket to the World Cup.
Team captain William Troost-Ekong has since addressed the situation publicly, assuring fans that the players are not making any unreasonable demands, only seeking what is rightfully theirs.
“Once a resolution is found, we will be the first to confirm. Any other statement or claim, especially demands beyond the rightful request, is false. All we want and continue to do is focus on the big games ahead,” Troost-Ekong wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Sources close to the camp revealed that the unpaid allowances date back as far as 2019, sparking frustration among players who feel the federation has failed to fulfill its commitments despite repeated promises.
The standoff has raised concerns about morale within the squad ahead of the all important encounter against Gabon, scheduled to take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
For Nigeria, the match is a do or die affair, victory guarantees a place at the 2026 World Cup, while anything less could derail the nation’s qualification hopes.
Observers have also pointed out that this isn’t the first time the NFF has faced financial disputes with the national team, reigniting debates about accountability and player welfare in Nigerian football.
