Nigeria Players Threaten Training Boycott, Marrakech Travel Over Unpaid Bonuses Ahead of Algeria Clash

07 January 2026at17:16

Players of the Nigerian national team have threatened to boycott training sessions ahead of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final match against Algeria, protesting the non-receipt of their match bonuses.

According to the British broadcaster BBC, the 'Super Eagles' players also threatened not to travel to Marrakech, as the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has not paid the winning bonuses for players and technical staff members for their Africa Cup of Nations matches.

In this context, BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji stated in a social media post: "Nigeria players and staff are waiting for their winning bonuses for four matches against Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Mozambique, which have not yet been received. The group remains focused, but they will not train or travel to Marrakech on Thursday if the issue is not resolved."

The Nigerian national team secured its qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals after a comprehensive four-nil victory over Mozambique, setting up a clash with Algeria next Saturday at the Grand Stade de Marrakech, kicking off at 5:00 PM (GMT+1).

Q&A

Why are Nigeria's Super Eagles players threatening to boycott training and travel?

The Nigerian national team players are protesting the non-receipt of their winning bonuses for four recent Africa Cup of Nations matches, leading to threats of boycotting training and travel to Marrakech for their upcoming game.

Which specific matches are the Nigerian players awaiting bonuses for?

According to BBC journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, the players and staff are waiting for winning bonuses from their matches against Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Mozambique.

How does this bonus dispute impact Nigeria's upcoming AFCON quarter-final match?

The dispute has led to threats of a training boycott and refusal to travel to Marrakech, potentially disrupting the Super Eagles' preparations for their quarter-final fixture against Algeria, scheduled for next Saturday.

Nigeria

Morocco

CAF Africa Cup of Nations

Algeria