Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has officially addressed the training boycott by Nigerian national team players ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifying match against Gabon.
Training Session Abandoned in Rabat
The Nigerian national football team made a dramatic stand on Tuesday evening in Rabat, Morocco, when all 24 invited players refused to participate in training. This protest occurred just days before Nigeria's important 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff match against Gabon.
The boycott included the complete squad, with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen having recently joined the team after earlier travel delays. Both players and technical staff united in their protest against the Nigeria Football Federation over outstanding financial obligations.
Ekong Sets the Record Straight
Captain William Troost-Ekong took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to clarify the situation and counter what he described as false narratives circulating about the team's actions.
The defender explicitly denied claims that players were making special bonus demands, stating that journalist Oluwashina Okeleji's report about "unresolved issues with outstanding payments" represented the only accurate account of the situation.
"Once resolution is found we will be the first to confirm. Any other statement/claim or especially demands other than the rightful request written about below is FALSE," Ekong stated in his social media post.
He emphasized that the team's primary focus remains on the upcoming crucial matches, stating: "All we want and continue to do is focus on the big games ahead."
Mixed Reactions and Fan Support
The training boycott generated significant discussion across Nigerian social media platforms, with reactions divided among football enthusiasts.
However, many supporters expressed solidarity with the players following Ekong's clarification. Numerous fans directed their criticism toward the Nigeria Football Federation, which has faced increasing scrutiny over allegations of financial mismanagement.
One social media user @Itata_9 commented: "We're behind you guys every step of the way. We want nothing more than to see the team shine at the World Cup. The NFF should do everything they're supposed to do to ensure that happens."
Another supporter, @olashile_elijah, added: "Weldone Team. Stand your ground on this matter. NFF can do better."
The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the national team and football administration in Nigeria, with financial disputes becoming a recurring challenge for the Super Eagles during important international competitions.
