The build-up to Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying playoffs took a dramatic turn on Tuesday as the Super Eagles boycotted training in Rabat, Morocco, over unpaid bonuses spanning nearly two years.
According to SCORENigeria, the players informed head coach Eric Chelle that they would not take part in their scheduled evening session until the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) clears the backlog of allowances and bonuses owed from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers and the ongoing World Cup campaign.
The standoff reportedly disrupted the team’s preparations for one of their most crucial fixtures in recent years. The Super Eagles had trained on Monday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat but refused to show up for Tuesday’s session at their Rive Hotel camp, insisting that “enough is enough.”
Inside sources revealed that the players, many of whom ply their trade in top European clubs, feel disrespected by the NFF’s continued failure to meet its financial obligations despite repeated promises. “It’s not just about money anymore,” one player was quoted as saying. “It’s about respect and professionalism.”
The development has cast uncertainty over Nigeria’s readiness for the playoffs, where the team is seeking to secure one of Africa’s coveted spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This is not the first time the Super Eagles have faced such disputes ahead of major competitions. Bonus rows have become an unfortunate recurring theme in Nigerian football, often surfacing at the most inopportune times, sometimes even on the eve of tournaments.
Sports analysts warn that such off-field distractions could undermine the team’s focus and morale, particularly as the pressure mounts on Chelle to deliver qualification after recent inconsistencies.
As of press time, the NFF had yet to issue an official response to the players’ action. However, reports suggest that efforts are underway behind the scenes to resolve the impasse before it disrupts the team’s match preparations any further.
For now, the Super Eagles remain in their Rabat base waiting, watching, and hoping that words finally turn into payments before their dreams of a World Cup return are jeopardized by off-field battles.
