Nigeria are grappling with reports of an unpaid bonus and a Victor Osimhen feud ahead of their AFCON quarter-final clash with Algeria.
Published on January 9, 2026
Nigeria prepares for Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals against Algeria They have been hit by the arrest of star striker Victor Osimhen and internal strife following reports that players were not being paid their bonuses.
Nigeria coach Eric Chele would not comment on the reports on Friday, when he said such questions should be directed to the Nigeria Football Federation.
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“That’s my job, to stay focused – to try to focus – just focus on the pitch (area) and definitely my job is on the pitch, not around,” Chele said in Marrakesh, a day before Nigeria played Algeria in the city.
The NFF still advertises a vacancy for the men’s head coach position, a year and a day after Chele was appointed to the post.
Nigerian media outlets reported that the players had threatened not to train or travel to Marrakesh for the match unless they were paid an agreed bonus for winning their first four Africa Cup of Nations matches.
The team arrived in Marrakesh on Thursday and held their first training session on the same day. Chelle said he would train again later on Friday.
Chele refused to comment on reports that Osimhene was on the verge of being pulled out of the squad after an on-field altercation with teammate Ademola Lookman during the Super Eagles’ 4-0 win over Mozambique in the last 16 on Monday.
“I prefer to talk about the (upcoming) game. Victor is there and that’s all,” Chelle said. “Yes, everyone is talking about Osimhen and Lookman, that’s normal, they are the last two best African players, but we are here to serve them to score, we are working for them. We are a team and that’s what teamwork is all about.”
Osimhen scored two goals with Lookman in that match, but was angered when Lookman tried to score instead of setting up for another.
Lookman, when asked about it after the game, argued when he said it was “just football” and called Osimhen his “brother”.
Lookman then also posted photos of himself celebrating with Osimhen on social media with the caption “Together Always”.
Nigeria, who lost in the final to Ivory Coast in the last edition, are bidding for a fourth title. That will help offset the disappointment of not qualifying for the World Cup.
Both of Algeria’s titles include victories on the road against Nigeria – twice in 1990 and again in the semi-finals in 2019.