Key Takeaways:
- Nigerian players threatened to boycott training and the upcoming trip to Marrakesh for the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final against Algeria this Saturday due to unpaid bonuses
- Demands for payment were led by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and others following three group wins and a decisive round of 16 victory
- A similar payment dispute occurred in November 2025 before a crucial World Cup semi-final playoff against Gabon, with the players successfully securing their bonuses then
Bonus Dispute Threatens Nigeria’s AFCON Preparations
The Nigerian national football team is facing internal unrest just days before their much-anticipated Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final against Algeria in Marrakesh on Saturday. According to a report from “L’Equipe”, the squad has threatened to abstain from training sessions and potentially forgo travel from Fez to Marrakesh unless their pre-agreed bonuses are paid in full.
🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: The Nigeria squad will NOT travel to Marrakech for the quarter-final against Algeria, unless the Nigerian Football Federation pays some of the outstanding winning bonuses at the AFCON 2025.
(Source: @NigeriaStories) pic.twitter.com/ihORCLUFIS
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) January 7, 2026
Players Demand Payments After Group Stage Success
The demand for outstanding bonuses has been spearheaded by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and several teammates. Their calls for payment are based on successes throughout the tournament, including group stage victories over Tanzania (2:1), Tunisia (3:2), and Uganda (3:1), and a commanding 4:0 win against Mozambique in the round of 16.
| Stage | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | Tanzania | 2:1 |
| Group Stage | Tunisia | 3:2 |
| Group Stage | Uganda | 3:1 |
| Round of 16 | Mozambique | 4:0 |
Historical Patterns of Dispute
This dispute closely mirrors a previous incident in November 2025, when the Nigerian team refused to train two days ahead of their semi-final playoff against Gabon for a place in the 2026 World Cup. On that occasion, the players’ stance resulted in the prompt payment of the promised sums.
Recent History and Context
Nigeria were finalists in the most recent edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024, succumbing 1:2 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the title match.
