Nigeria’s Super Eagles are facing a distraction ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash with Algeria, as players reportedly threaten to boycott training over unpaid bonuses.
The development comes just days before the highly anticipated AFCON 2025 quarter-final, scheduled to take place in Marrakech.
According to reports, the players are demanding the immediate payment of all outstanding winning bonuses accumulated during the tournament so far.
The three-time African champions sealed their place in the last eight with a dominant 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the round of 16.
However, despite their impressive form on the pitch, tensions are said to be rising behind the scenes.
Sources close to the team revealed that the bonuses in question cover both the group stage matches and the knockout rounds.
These payments reportedly remain unsettled, even though government funding has allegedly been made available for the tournament.
Renowned Nigerian journalist Oluwashina Okeleji disclosed that the Nigeria Football Federation has yet to pay players and officials their win bonuses from all four matches played in Morocco.
His revelation has fueled concerns about player welfare and preparation ahead of a crucial fixture.
While the Super Eagles are expected to travel to Marrakech on Thursday, reports suggest the squad may remain in Fez instead.
Moreover, training activities could be suspended if their demands are not addressed promptly by the football authorities.
The AFCON 2025 quarter-final is seen as a defining moment in Nigeria’s campaign, and any disruption could affect focus and performance.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation has yet to issue an official response to the claims.
The Super Eagles bonus dispute has also revived memories of past disagreements between national teams and football administrators.
