Alex MacQuoid
Super Eagles Boycott Training Ahead of Gabon Clash
Nigeria players and staff skipped training Tuesday, just two days before their 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off against Gabon in Morocco.
The protest stems from unpaid allowances and bonuses dating back to 2019, with stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman demanding resolution from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The boycott has disrupted preparations for Thursday’s African play-off semi-final at Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
Once resolution is found we will be the first to confirm. All we want and continue to do is focus on the big games ahead.
William Troost-Ekong, Super Eagles captain
Read also: Nigeria vs Gabon Prediction: 13.11.2025 FIFA World Cup CAF Qualification Preview
The NFF has not commented publicly, but sources confirm urgent talks are underway. Training may resume Wednesday if a financial agreement is reached.
This isn’t the first time the NFF has delayed payments, sparking public outrage. Nigerians are calling for swift resolution ahead of the crucial match.
Path to World Cup Remains Uncertain
Nigeria must defeat Gabon to advance. The winners will face either Cameroon or DR Congo in Sunday’s final, with the victor advancing to next March’s intercontinental playoff.
That six-team tournament will determine Africa’s final two World Cup qualifiers for the 2026 tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.