Super Eagles end strike, return to training ahead of Gabon playoff clash
The Super Eagles have officially called off their strike and resumed training ahead of Thursday’s crucial CAF 2026 World Cup Playoff against Gabon in Rabat, Morocco.
Following a tense standoff over unpaid bonuses, the Nigerian national team returned to the pitch on Wednesday evening after reaching a resolution with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The players had boycotted training on Tuesday, demanding payment of long-overdue entitlements from previous qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong had earlier taken to social media to refute claims that the squad was demanding a special bonus for the playoffs.
He clarified that the players were only asking for their rightful dues, stating, ‘Any other statement/claim especially demands other than the rightful request written below are FALSE.’
The team had received only a $1,000 appearance fee per match, which was reportedly withheld for last month’s fixtures against Lesotho and Benin, despite confirmation that the NFF had received the necessary funds.
The idea of a special playoff bonus was allegedly introduced by NFF officials but never formalized.
After a productive meeting with football authorities, the Super Eagles resumed training at 5:00pm local time in Rabat.
Head coach Eric Chelle now has all 23 invited players available as preparations intensify for the semi-final clash against Gabon at the Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium.
The resolution of the dispute comes as a relief to fans and stakeholders, ensuring Nigeria’s campaign for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains on track.
