Troost-Ekong: Super Eagles bonus dispute still unresolved ahead of Gabon clash

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has confirmed that the team’s lingering bonus dispute with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) remains unsettled, just 24 hours before their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon in Morocco.

Training boycott continues amid tense atmosphere

The players reportedly boycotted Tuesday’s scheduled training session in Rabat, protesting unpaid bonuses and allowances dating back to the Africa Cup of Nations and earlier World Cup qualifiers.

While head coach Eric Chelle and his technical crew are also said to be owed salaries, Troost-Ekong clarified that the coaches are not part of the players’ protest, reports ANS.

The squad has vowed not to resume training until all outstanding payments are settled, raising concerns over Nigeria’s readiness for Thursday’s semi-final.

Mixed signals from Abuja

Officials from the National Sports Commission, led by Shehu Dikko, maintain that all due payments have already been processed.

However, players insist that no funds have been received in their accounts, deepening mistrust between both parties.

The situation mirrors previous episodes in Nigerian football, where financial disputes disrupted key tournaments and qualifiers.

Captain issues clarification

In a post shared via football journalist Oluwashina Okeleji on X, Troost-Ekong addressed the growing speculation surrounding the standoff.

“Once resolution is found, we will be the first to confirm,” the defender wrote.
“Any other statement or claim, especially demands beyond the rightful request mentioned below, is FALSE. All we want and continue to do is focus on the big games ahead.”

Focus turns to crucial playoff

Despite the internal tension, the Super Eagles are still expected to honour their playoff clash against Gabon on Thursday at 17:00 (local time) at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat.

Victory would see Nigeria advance to Sunday’s final against either Cameroon or DR Congo, moving one step closer to securing a place in the 2026 World Cup.

For now, however, uncertainty lingers, both over payments and over how the off-field distraction might impact the Super Eagles’ pursuit of qualification.