Rabat, Morocco | November 12, 2025 

Preparations for Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-off semi-final against Gabon suffered a setback on Monday after the Super Eagles boycotted training in Rabat over a dispute with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) regarding match bonuses.

Sources confirmed that players demanded $15,000 per match, citing recent increases by other African teams such as Cameroon and DR Congo. The NFF reportedly offered $10,000, maintaining the rate introduced under former president Amaju Pinnick.

Until the issue is resolved, the squad has vowed to suspend all training activities, raising fears of a potential boycott of Thursday’s crucial tie.

In a statement reportedly signed by the team, the players said:

“The full squad, including officials, withheld from training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues with outstanding payments. We await a quick resolution to continue preparations for Thursday’s game with Gabon.”

Efforts to reach NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and Communications Director Ademola Olajire for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.

Meanwhile, 23 players - excluding goalkeeper Maduka Okoye are already in camp, with head coach Eric Chelle overseeing the team’s preparations at the Moulay Hassan Stadium.

Nigeria faces Gabon on Thursday in Rabat, while Cameroon takes on DR Congo in the other semi-final. Winners will advance to the final on November 16 for a chance to secure a place in the inter-confederation play-offs for the 2026 World Cup.