2026 WCQ: Super Eagles no-show training for Gabon, hold NFF to ransom over backlog

The Super Eagles of Nigeria took an unexpected turn in their preparations for the crucial 2026 World Cup African playoff in Morocco on Tuesday, as players and officials boycotted training over unresolved bonus payments. 

The squad, assembled in Rabat ahead of Thursday’s semi-final against Gabon, refused to participate in team sessions while negotiations over outstanding entitlements remain unresolved.

The boycott, which involved all 24 players and coaching staff, has raised concerns over Nigeria’s readiness for the must-win fixture. Officials confirmed that the team will remain in Morocco and that discussions with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are ongoing, with hopes of reaching an agreement before training resumes.

The disruption comes at a critical moment, just two days before the high-stakes encounter that could determine the nation’s pathway to the intercontinental playoff.

Super Eagles' preparations in jeopardy ahead of Gabon clash

Reports from the camp indicate that the dispute centres on bonuses owed to players and staff for past matches in the ongoing World Cup qualifying series. Sources suggest that the matter has been lingering for several weeks, with promises of payment made but not fulfilled.

The squad is understood to be resolute, insisting that the financial issues be addressed before they return to training, reflecting a broader frustration that has been simmering throughout the campaign.

Players owed bonus since 2019.

None of the Super Eagles players has received their allocated allowances or bonus for reaching the 2025 AFCON and 2026 World Cup playoff

Nigeria players & staff boycott Tuesday training ahead of Thursday’s game vs Gabon.

Tired of empty promises. pic.twitter.com/UoE64OVnTK

— Olúwashínà Okeleji (@oluwashina) November 11, 2025

The timing of the dispute could not be worse. With the semi-final against Gabon scheduled for Thursday, followed by a potential final on Sunday, 16 November against either Cameroon or DR Congo, the Super Eagles need all hands on deck. The NFF has stated that it is engaging with team representatives to resolve the matter swiftly and ensure that preparations are not derailed.

Similar issues have arisen in Nigerian football in the past, often impacting performance and morale. The Super Eagles’ technical staff have been working to maintain focus within the squad, but the absence of training on the eve of such an important fixture may have repercussions on tactical readiness and cohesion.