RABAT, Morocco — Tension has gripped the camp of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, after the players boycotted training ahead of their crucial African play-off tie for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing unpaid entitlements.
Training Boycott Over Unpaid Dues
Reports from Morocco indicate that the Super Eagles, who are preparing to face Gabon in the play-off semi-final, refused to attend training on Tuesday in protest over outstanding bonuses and allowances.
According to sources, the grievances include match bonuses and appearance fees dating as far back as 2019, with several players expressing frustration at the delay despite repeated assurances from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Ekong Speaks: “We Only Asked for What We’re Owed”
Team captain William Troost-Ekong confirmed the boycott and clarified that the players’ demands are purely financial — and legitimate.
“Once resolution is found we will be the first to confirm,” Ekong said in a statement.
“Any other statement or claim, or especially demands other than the rightful request written about below, is false. All we want and continue to do is focus on the big games ahead.”
Ekong also called on supporters to stay calm, assuring that the players remain focused on qualifying for the World Cup once the issue is resolved.
Concerned Nigerians Call for Urgent Action
The controversy has sparked strong reactions from football fans and concerned citizens across the country.
One of them, Chief Isong, speaking as a concerned Nigerian, urged the NFF and all football authorities not to take the situation lightly.
“I’m calling on the NFA and other agencies in charge of football not to joke with this opportunity,” Chief Isong said.
“They must do the needful and make sure Nigeria qualifies for the World Cup. This is a defining moment — we cannot afford internal distractions.”
His statement reflects the sentiments of millions of Nigerians who see the World Cup as a chance to restore national pride and footballing prestige.
Mounting Pressure on the NFF
The boycott has once again drawn attention to the persistent administrative challenges in Nigerian football — including delayed payments, poor welfare structures, and inadequate planning.
Observers say this crisis echoes previous disputes that have disrupted the team’s focus in major tournaments, raising questions about accountability and professionalism within the NFF.
Negotiations Underway
As of press time, NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau was reported to be in Rabat holding meetings with the players and coaching crew in a bid to defuse tensions.
Sources close to the camp say the Federation is working to settle part of the outstanding entitlements before the team’s next training session.
Despite the impasse, the players are said to be in high spirits and determined to deliver on the pitch once the issue is resolved.
The Road Ahead
Nigeria’s clash against Gabon in the World Cup play-off is a make-or-break moment for the Super Eagles.
With national pride and qualification hopes on the line, many are calling on football administrators to act swiftly and responsibly to ensure that off-field disputes do not derail the team’s performance.
