Preparations for the Super Eagles’ crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon have been clouded by controversy after disturbing footage emerged showing the team’s substandard living conditions in Rabat, Morocco, where they are camped ahead of next week’s match.
A video shared by midfielder Alex Iwobi on social media has gone viral, drawing widespread outrage from fans and pundits alike. The short clip showed the team’s lodging in a visibly dilapidated statewith cracked walls, poorly maintained rooms, and generally rundown facilities sparking fresh criticism of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) over its handling of player welfare.
Many Nigerians online expressed disappointment, questioning why a team of the Super Eagles’ stature would be subjected to such poor treatment on international duty. Commentators have described the situation as “embarrassing” and “unacceptable,” especially with the stakes so high as Nigeria battles for a place in the final playoff round of the World Cup qualifiers.
The incident has reignited long-standing debates about mismanagement and inadequate planning within the NFF, with some fans calling for greater accountability and transparency in how resources are allocated for national team logistics.
“It’s disheartening to see our players representing over 200 million people being treated this way,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “They deserve better than this kind of environment.”
Despite the controversy, the mood within the Super Eagles’ camp reportedly remains focused and determined. Team insiders say the players are blocking out the distractions and concentrating on the vital task ahead: defeating Gabon on November 13 to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Star forward Victor Osimhen once again demonstrated his dedication to the national cause by flying in straight from a demanding club engagement in Europe to join the camp. His early arrival has been hailed by fans as a show of leadership and passion for the green and white jersey.
Team officials have yet to release an official statement regarding the viral video, but sources within the federation suggest that efforts are being made to relocate the players to more suitable accommodation before the end of the weekend.
With kickoff fast approaching, the NFF is under mounting pressure to restore public confidence and ensure the team is fully prepared for the make-or-break clash. A win against Gabon would see the Super Eagles advance to the next stage of qualification and keep Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup dream alive a goal the players remain determined to achieve, regardless of the off-field distractions.
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