Reports suggest Nigeria’s Super Eagles have refused to train or travel to Marrakech ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash against Algeria unless outstanding bonuses are paid.
According to multiple sources, the players are unhappy after failing to receive any match bonuses since the start of the tournament, despite enjoying a flawless campaign so far. The standoff is said to have halted preparations for Saturday’s crucial encounter, with the squad insisting that all owed payments be settled before they resume training or make the trip to Morocco.
Nigeria have been in imperious form at the tournament, winning all four of their matches to date. The Super Eagles opened their campaign with victories over Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda before producing a dominant 4–0 triumph against Mozambique in the Round of 16 to seal their place in the quarter-finals.
Reports indicate that bonuses from those four victories remain unpaid, a situation that has left players frustrated and disillusioned. Team officials are also believed to be affected by the delay, further heightening tensions within the camp at a critical stage of the competition.
The Super Eagles are chasing a record fourth AFCON title and their first since lifting the trophy in 2013. They remain the only team at the tournament yet to draw or lose a match and have been widely tipped as strong contenders to go all the way after several years of painful near misses on the continental stage.
However, with the competition entering its decisive phase, the unresolved bonus dispute threatens to overshadow Nigeria’s impressive on-field performances. Supporters will be hoping the issue is resolved swiftly to prevent further disruption and allow the team to focus fully on their quarter-final showdown with Algeria.
