Nigeria’s preparations for Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa playoff against Gabon have been thrown into turmoil after the Super Eagles and their officials boycotted training in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday over unpaid allowances and bonuses.
The squad, comprising 23 players, refused to train just two days before the crucial semi-final clash at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium, citing long-standing financial grievances with football authorities.
In a joint statement, players and staff confirmed: “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 preparations for Thursday’s game with Gabon.”
The unpaid bonuses reportedly date back several years, with players said to be frustrated by repeated delays and broken promises from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
While the NFF has not yet released an official response, talks are believed to be ongoing to resolve the issue.
Before the disruption, morale in camp had been positive following the arrival of Victor Osimhen, with coach Eric Chelle focusing on tactical sessions and set-piece routines.
However, the latest standoff threatens to derail momentum ahead of one of Nigeria’s most decisive fixtures in recent years.
Nigeria face Gabon on Thursday in Rabat, while Cameroon take on DR Congo in the other semi-final in El-Barid.
Winners will meet in the final on November 16, with the champion advancing to the interconfederation playoffs for a 2026 World Cup berth.
