The Super Eagles of Nigeria have boycotted training in Rabat, Morocco, amid a standoff with football authorities over unpaid allowances and bonuses, just days before their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon.
The team was scheduled to train on Tuesday in preparation for Thursday’s decisive match but opted out in protest. According to BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, the entire squad — including backroom staff — refused to participate, citing long-standing financial grievances.
In a brief joint statement reportedly issued by the players and officials, the Super Eagles confirmed the boycott:
“The full squad including officials withheld from training today in Morocco because of the unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparations for Thursday’s game with Gabon.”
The development comes at a critical moment for the team, as they prepare for the World Cup Africa Playoff semi-finalat the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
A victory against Gabon would send Nigeria to the final playoff, where they will face either Cameroon or DR Congo.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has yet to issue an official statement addressing the standoff, but the impasse adds further tension to an already high-stakes qualification campaign.
