Guinea’s national football team has reportedly returned to training in Ivory Coast on Friday after a temporary halt on Thursday, where players refused to participate as a form of protest against the non-payment of promised bonuses, estimated at around 9,200 euros. The development comes as the team prepares for a crucial round of 16 encounter against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday.
The collective training session on Thursday in Yamoussoukro was canceled, marking a stand by the Syli National players against the apparent delay in receiving a bonus of 10,000 dollars (approximately 6 million FCFA).
This bonus was negotiated in the event of the team’s qualification for the round of 16 of the 2024 African Cup of Nations, an accomplishment that Guinea successfully achieved.
Following a meeting between team officials on Thursday at their hotel, negotiations were initiated with Guinean authorities to expedite the payment process.
According to reports, a representative from the sports ministry committed to delivering the owed sum on Saturday, just ahead of the round of 16 clash scheduled for Sunday against Equatorial Guinea at 5 p.m. GMT.
While tensions flared and players initially declined to train, there are indications that a resolution is imminent.
The team delegation has reportedly embarked on the journey to Abidjan, where they will compete at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara on Sunday.
Guinea secured a spot in the round of 16 by finishing third in Group C, trailing behind Senegal and Cameroon.
Notable players in the team, including Naby Keita and Serhou Guirassy, will be eager to overcome historical obstacles and advance further in the tournament.
Guinea’s best performance in the African Cup of Nations was a runner-up finish in 1976. The unfolding situation adds a layer of complexity to their aspirations for success in the current edition.
