Nigeria’s Super Eagles have boycotted training in Rabat, Morocco, ahead of Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa play-off semi-final against Gabon, in protest over unpaid allowances and bonuses.
The players and technical crew jointly refused to train on Tuesday, citing unresolved payments dating as far back as 2019, including bonuses for reaching the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and advancing to the World Cup play-offs.
According to BBC Sport journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, who broke the story on X (formerly Twitter), the team is “awaiting a quick resolution” before resuming preparations. He said the players and staff are “tired of empty promises,” confirming that none had received their due entitlements.
A statement reportedly issued by the team and signed by both players and technical officials read:
“The full squad, including officials, withheld from training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparation for Thursday’s game with Gabon. Thank you. From the players.”
The boycott was also confirmed by sports photojournalist Sulaimon Adebayo, who is covering the Eagles’ camp.
The squad currently in camp includes captain William Troost-Ekong, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Akor Adams. Others are Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Only goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who recently returned to form with Udinese in Serie A, is yet to join the camp.
The Eagles held their first full training session on Monday with 14 players present, as head coach Eric Chelle intensified drills ahead of the crucial encounter. The arrival of Ademola Lookman later that evening added more attacking bite to the team.
Nigeria is set to face Gabon at the 22,000-capacity Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, while Cameroon and DR Congo will clash in the other semi-final at El-Barid Stadium. The winners will meet in the final on November 16, with a place in the inter-confederation play-offs and a shot at the 2026 World Cup ticket at stake.