Super Eagles Face Payment Crisis Ahead of World Cup Qualifier
A shocking revelation has emerged from the Super Eagles camp as a senior player confirmed that the Nigeria Football Federation has failed to pay match bonuses to the national team for two consecutive years. This financial dispute comes at a critical moment when Nigeria prepares for the 2026 World Cup playoff against Gabon.
Players Speak Out on Unpaid Bonuses
In an exclusive interview with OwnGoal Nigeria, an anonymous Super Eagles star disclosed the troubling financial situation facing the team. "I am not sure anyone is thinking about bonuses in the team, because we haven't been paid for two years", the player revealed, highlighting the prolonged nature of the payment issues.
The player further explained that the non-payment extends beyond recent matches, stating "I reliably gathered that no one was paid a dime for the Unity Cup or the friendly game against Russia. It's been the same story for two years now." Despite these financial frustrations, the player emphasized the team's unwavering commitment to representing Nigeria.
Chelle Names Strong Squad Amid Financial Tensions
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced a powerful 24-man squad for the crucial World Cup playoff opener against Gabon scheduled for November 13-16 in Rabat, Morocco. The squad features:
- Victor Osimhen
- Stanley Nwabali
- Calvin Bassey
- Alex Iwobi
- William Troost-Ekong
Chelle has strategically recalled several players including Ejuke Chidera, Raphael Onyedika, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while handing a debut invitation to Olakunle Olusegun. This balanced selection combines experienced veterans with emerging talent as Nigeria seeks to qualify for the World Cup after missing the 2022 edition in Qatar.
World Cup Playoff Challenge Intensifies
Nigeria faces a challenging path to World Cup qualification, beginning with a tough encounter against Gabon on November 13. The winner will advance to face either Democratic Republic of Congo or Cameroon in the final on November 16. The ultimate victor of this four-nation mini-tournament will proceed to the Intercontinental playoffs, where six countries will compete for two tickets to the 2026 World Cup.
Adding to the pressure, Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has issued a warning to the Super Eagles following his recent goal in Olympique de Marseille's 3-0 victory against Brestois. The three-time African champions will need to combine discipline and skill to overcome their playoff rivals despite the ongoing bonus dispute.
Players maintain that the financial issues will not affect their performance or commitment to the national team, demonstrating remarkable professionalism amid challenging circumstances.
