### Tensions Rise as Nigeria's Super Eagles Threaten to Boycott AFCON Quarter-Final Over Unpaid Bonuses The Super Eagles of Nigeria are facing a significant crisis ahead of their quarter-final match against Algeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Players have threatened to boycott training and travel to Marrakech due to unpaid bonuses from previous matches. This situation has escalated tensions within the team, as they demand the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) settle outstanding payments before they proceed with preparations for the crucial match. The players are currently in Fès, Morocco, where they have successfully won all their group matches, but their focus is now on resolving the financial dispute before the upcoming game on Saturday, January 8, 2026 [https://www.tuko.co.ke/sports/football/614392-afcon-2025-nigeria-players-threaten-boycott-quarter-final-match-algeria, https://www.completesports.com/afcon-2025-super-eagles-set-to-depart-for-marrakech-amid-strike-threats]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation 1. **Player Discontent**: The Super Eagles have expressed dissatisfaction over unpaid bonuses, which has led to a refusal to train or travel for their next match against Algeria [https://thenews-chronicle.com/super-eagles-threaten-afcon-boycott-over-unpaid-bonuses]. 2. **Impact on Team Dynamics**: The ongoing dispute has created a tense atmosphere within the team, affecting their preparations for the quarter-final [https://championnews.com.ng/2026/01/08/bonus-dispute-rocks-super-eagles-camp-as-afcon-quarter-final-looms]. 3. **Official Responses**: Various stakeholders, including former political figures like Peter Obi, have reacted to the situation, urging the NFF to address the players' grievances promptly [https://www.legit.ng/nigeria/1691404-afcon-2025-obi-reacts-eagles-protest-owed-allowances-threaten-boycott-travel-algeria-tie]. 4. **Potential Consequences**: If the situation remains unresolved, the Super Eagles may not only miss their training sessions but could also forfeit their match against Algeria, which would have significant implications for their AFCON campaign [https://www.lindaikejisblog.com/2026/1/super-eagles-squad-threaten-to-boycott-training-and-delay-trip-to-marrakech-for-afcon-quarter-final-against-algeria-until-nff-settles-outstanding-bonuses.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Outstanding Bonuses**: Reports indicate that players are owed bonuses from four matches played during the tournament, which has led to their current strike action [https://www.thesun.ng/afcon-bonus-row-super-eagles-go-on-strike-ahead-of-algeria-clash]. - **Team's Performance**: The Super Eagles have performed well in the tournament thus far, winning all their group matches, which adds to the frustration over unpaid bonuses as they feel they have earned their rewards [https://www.theheritagetimes.com/afcon-nigerias-super-eagles-may-boycott-algeria-match-over-outstanding-bonuses]. - **Public and Media Attention**: The situation has garnered significant media coverage, highlighting the ongoing issues within Nigerian football regarding player payments and the management of the national team [https://www.kanyidaily.com/2026/01/super-eagles-protest-unpaid-allowances-threaten-to-boycott-algeria-match.html]. ### Conclusion: Urgent Resolution Needed for Super Eagles' AFCON Aspirations In summary, the Super Eagles are at a critical juncture as they prepare for their quarter-final match against Algeria. The players' threat to boycott training and travel due to unpaid bonuses poses a serious risk to their AFCON campaign. 1. **Immediate Action Required**: The NFF must address the players' financial concerns to ensure the team can focus on their performance rather than financial disputes. 2. **Potential Fallout**: Failure to resolve these issues could lead to a boycott of the match, which would not only affect the players but also the reputation of Nigerian football on an international stage. 3. **Call for Support**: Stakeholders, including fans and former players, are encouraged to advocate for the players' rights and push for a swift resolution to this ongoing issue [https://www.thewillnews.com/super-eagles-threaten-boycott-over-unpaid-bonuses-before-algeria-tie]. The situation remains fluid, and the coming days will be crucial for the Super Eagles as they navigate this challenging period.