Troy Deeney Slams Super Eagles–NFF Bonus Row: “A Real Shame for Nigerian Football”
Former Premier League striker Troy Deeney has described the ongoing dispute between the Super Eagles and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over unpaid match bonuses as a “real shame.”
Nigeria’s preparations for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon were nearly derailed on Tuesday after reports emerged that players had boycotted training to protest years of unpaid bonuses and allowances.
The tension, however, was eased by Wednesday afternoon after both parties reportedly reached a resolution. The players are said to be back in good spirits and ready for Thursday’s encounter in Rabat, Morocco.
Still, Deeney expressed disappointment over the timing and recurring nature of such issues in Nigerian football.
“It’s a real shame because it’s a huge moment in the World Cup qualifiers and we are now talking about off-the-pitch stuff again,” the former Watford captain told CBS Sports Golazo.
“It’s not the first time, not the second time,” he added, alluding to Nigeria’s long history of bonus-related controversies that often overshadow major tournaments and qualifiers.
Nigeria will face the winner between Cameroon and DR Congo should they defeat Gabon in Thursday’s semifinal playoff clash.
Opinion: When Talent Suffers from Poor Management — The Super Eagles’ Endless Off-Field Battle
Troy Deeney’s reaction captures what many football fans have felt for years — frustration. How does a football powerhouse like Nigeria, blessed with world-class talents and global recognition, still struggle with basic issues like players’ bonuses and welfare?
This latest standoff isn’t new — it’s a story that repeats itself almost every international window. From the 2013 Confederations Cup to the 2018 World Cup and now the 2026 qualifiers, off-field drama has become as familiar as the Super Eagles’ green-and-white jersey.
It’s not just embarrassing; it’s disheartening. These players represent national pride, yet time and again, administrative mismanagement steals the spotlight from their performances. Deeney’s words sting because they are true — Nigerian football keeps tripping over the same avoidable hurdle.
The NFF’s quick resolution this time is commendable, but true reform means preventing these crises before they start. The Super Eagles deserve to focus solely on football, not finances.
As Nigeria heads into Thursday’s decisive clash, fans can only hope the conversation shifts back to the pitch — where it truly belongs.
