NFF Confident Super Eagles Will Secure World Cup Ticket After Pay Dispute Resolution

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has reaffirmed its confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to clinch a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket, following the swift resolution of a pay dispute that briefly threatened team harmony and preparation.

After boycotting Tuesday’s training session over unpaid bonuses, the Super Eagles dramatically returned to the pitch on Wednesday evening, signalling renewed focus and unity ahead of Thursday’s high-stakes playoff semi-final clash against Gabon’s Panthers.

The disruption, which stirred memories of past off-field issues affecting on-field performance, has now been settled. With tensions eased, the three-time African champions are expected to bring their trademark intensity and skill to the decisive encounter.

The team’s final training session took place at the Institut Royal de Formation Des Cadres in Sale, Morocco, where the players appeared spirited and optimistic, suggesting morale has been fully restored after the brief impasse.

NFF President Exudes Confidence

NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, praised the players’ professionalism and reaffirmed the Federation’s faith in their ability to deliver on the global stage.

“We believe in the players and their ability to make Nigeria proud, not only on Thursday, but throughout these playoffs,” Gusau said in a statement. “We have a team capable of earning a World Cup ticket.”

Gusau’s remarks were aimed at calming the growing anxiety among Nigerian fans, many of whom had expressed concern following the brief protest. His message underscores the renewed spirit of unity and determination between the NFF leadership and the players.

With administrative issues behind them, the Super Eagles now turn their full attention to Gabon — a team known for its physicality and flair — as they look to secure a spot in Sunday’s playoff final and move one step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

For the NFF, this moment represents not just a test of skill on the pitch, but also of leadership, discipline, and national resolve — values that the Super Eagles hope to embody as they chase World Cup glory once again.