The Super Eagles boycotted training in Rabat over unpaid allowances and bonuses just two days before their 2026 World Cup playoff against Gabon.
Nigeria’s preparations for Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon suffered a major setback on Tuesday as the Super Eagles players and officials boycotted training in Rabat over unresolved financial issues.
According to a report from VANGUARD, the entire squad, including backroom staff, refused to train due to long-standing grievances regarding unpaid allowances and bonuses. In a brief statement reportedly shared by players and officials, the team said, “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 boycott comes just two days before the first semi-final of the World Cup Africa Playoff Tournament at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The match result could determine Nigeria’s route to the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Despite the disruption, Victor Osimhen joined 22 other players in Rabat earlier on Tuesday, bringing optimism to head coach Eric Chelle’s squad. The team currently has 23 players in camp, with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye still expected to arrive.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has not issued a formal statement, though discussions are reportedly ongoing. The Super Eagles are expected to resume training on Wednesday if the dispute is resolved in time for Thursday’s crucial fixture.