Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has dismissed reports claiming that Nigerian players demanded a special bonus ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff match against Gabon.
According to CompleteSports.com, the centre-back clarified that the team’s only concern is the non-payment of long-standing bonuses and allowances, not any new or special financial request.
Earlier this week, the Super Eagles reportedly boycotted training in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday to protest unresolved payment issues. In a joint statement, the players and officials confirmed their decision, stating:
“The full squad, including officials, boycotted training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparation for Thursday’s game with Gabon.”
Addressing widespread rumours that the players were demanding extra bonuses, Troost-Ekong took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account to set the record straight:
“Any other statement or claim — especially those suggesting demands beyond our rightful request for unpaid bonuses — are false,” he wrote.
Sources close to the team reveal that the unpaid bonuses reportedly span several years, reflecting long-standing administrative and financial challenges within Nigerian football.
Head coach Éric Chelle and his squad are scheduled to face the Panthers of Gabon on Thursday at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco, as part of the ongoing 2026 World Cup Qualifying Playoffs.
