Alex Iwobi Clarifies Hotel Video Controversy As Super Eagles Focus On Morocco World Cup Playoff

A new twist has emerged in the controversy surrounding Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi, who shared a video showing the national team’s lodging ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff match in Morocco.

The clip quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from fans who described the facility as “unbefitting” for the national team. Some even compared it to a school hostel, sparking a heated debate online about the treatment of Nigerian players abroad.

Iwobi Responds

In response to the backlash, Iwobi emphasised that he did not make any negative remarks about the hotel.

“I didn’t say anything; I just showed the video,” the Fulham midfielder clarified, suggesting that his post had been taken out of context.

NFF Explains Lodging Choice

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) weighed in, explaining that the Super Eagles are camped at RIVE Hotel. They noted that the viral clip merely showed an old building visible from one of the windows.

“RIVE was chosen because of its proximity to the team’s training facility and the stadium here in Rabat,” the NFF stated.

Focus Shifts to World Cup Qualifier

With the lodging controversy addressed, the Super Eagles are now fully focused on preparations for the high-stakes playoff against Gabon. The incident serves as a reminder of the power—and risks—of viral content on social media, particularly when national pride and major sporting events are involved.