The Super Eagles of Nigeria have suspended training at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco in protest over unpaid winning bonuses, with both players and coaching staff refusing to take to the pitch.
Nigeria have enjoyed a flawless campaign so far, finishing the group stage with a perfect nine points after wins against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda.
The Super Eagles then underlined their title credentials with a commanding 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16 to seal a place in the quarter-finals.
Despite their impressive run, the team failed to train on Wednesday and has reportedly threatened to continue the boycott until the outstanding bonuses are settled.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to travel to Marrakesh on Thursday ahead of their quarter-final clash with Algeria, which will be played on Saturday, January 10, at the Ouahat Sidi Brahim Stadium. Kick-off is set for 16:00 GMT.
The latest standoff is not without precedent. Ahead of last year’s CAF World Cup play-offs, players and officials similarly boycotted training over unpaid entitlements.
Although that dispute was eventually resolved, Nigeria went on to lose the final to DR Congo, missing out on World Cup qualification for a second straight time.
Concerns over remuneration had also surfaced before the AFCON tournament, with reports indicating that head coach Eric Chelle was owed three months’ salary and bonuses.
The Malian tactician, however, has yet to lodge an official complaint with the authorities.
