2026 World Cup playoff: Super Eagles, officials boycott training over owed bonuses

World Cup playoffs – Super Eagles camp

By Rasaq Oboirien

The Super Eagles players and officials made a firm decision on Tuesday to boycott training in Rabat, Morocco, due to ongoing issues surrounding unpaid bonuses and allowances.

Shina Okeleji of the BBC African Sports broke the news on social media app X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, stating: “The entire squad, including team staff, has skipped Tuesday’s session as they demand an immediate resolution ahead of Thursday’s critical match against the Panthers of Gabon.”

It has come to light that players have been waiting for bonuses since 2019, and none have received their allowances for advancing to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco and the 2026 World Cup playoff stages.

The first semi-final between Nigeria and Gabon is set to kick off at 17:00 local time (5 PM Nigerian time) at El Barid Stadium, while the second semi-final between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo will follow at 20:00 local time.

The final is scheduled for Sunday, 16 November 2025, at Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan at 20:00 local time.

Breaking news & top stories

Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper

Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.

Breaking news & top stories

Follow The Sun Newspaper

Get live updates & exclusive stories delivered straight to your phone.

Breaking news & top stories

Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper

Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.