Nigeria’s Super Eagles have officially landed in Marrakesh ahead of their high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarter-final clash against Algeria.
This is coming amid assurances from the Federal Government that all outstanding match bonuses and allowances are being cleared
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The team arrived in the Moroccan city on Thursday, January 8, 2026, following a dominant 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16.
However, the travel was preceded by reports of a potential boycott, as players expressed frustration over delays in the disbursement of their entitlements for the group stage.
To maintain team morale, the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, issued a statement clarifying that the delays were administrative rather than financial.
She confirmed that the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have implemented an "accelerated FX conversion process" to ensure funds reach the players’ accounts imminently.
"All group-stage bonuses were fully released and have now cleared the necessary regulatory stages," Uzoka-Anite said.
"We have implemented a fast-track conversion process to move funds into foreign currency, honouring the players' preferences".
The Minister further noted that this new streamlined process would set a benchmark for future international competitions, ensuring more predictable disbursements aligned with global standards.
Earlier, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, explained that the delay was a result of recent structural changes within the Ministry of Finance and was not limited to the sports sector.
Despite the off-pitch distractions, the Super Eagles appear focused on their mission to secure a fourth continental title.
The team was seen being warmly welcomed by locals upon their arrival in Marrakesh, and training sessions have reportedly continued as scheduled.
Saturday’s quarter-final against the "Desert Warriors" of Algeria is expected to be a stern test for the Eric Chelle-led squad.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 5:00 p.m. local time on Saturday, January 10, at the Grand Stadium of Marrakesh.
