Key Facts
- ✓ The Nigerian team considered boycotting their CAN quarter-final against Algeria.
- ✓ The potential boycott was due to unpaid prize money.
- ✓ Captain Wilfred Ndidi confirmed the payments will be made.
Quick Summary
The Nigeria national football team has resolved a dispute regarding unpaid prize money, averting a potential boycott of their Coupe d'Afrique des Nations (CAN) quarter-final match against Algérie. Players had threatened to withdraw from the crucial fixture due to financial compensation issues.
Team captain Wilfred Ndidi confirmed that the outstanding payments will be processed. This assurance has stabilized the team's position and ensured their participation in the high-stakes tournament game. The resolution removes a significant distraction for the squad ahead of the match.
Boycott Threat Averted
The Nigerian squad briefly considered refusing to play in the quarter-final against Algérie. The decision stemmed from primes non versées (unpaid bonuses) owed to the team members. This potential action would have been a major incident in the tournament.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi stepped in to address the situation directly. He provided assurances that the financial obligations would be met. This intervention was crucial in preventing the boycott and maintaining the integrity of the competition schedule.
"Elles le seront bien"
— Wilfred Ndidi, Captain
Resolution and Confirmation
The dispute was settled through communication between team leadership and the relevant football authorities. Wilfred Ndidi publicly stated that the players would indeed receive their money. This confirmation effectively ended the standoff.
With the payment promise secured, the team is fully focused on the upcoming match. The Coupe d'Afrique des Nations quarter-final against Algérie will proceed with the Nigerian players participating as planned.
Impact on the Tournament
A boycott by a major team like Nigeria would have significantly disrupted the tournament structure. The resolution ensures that the match against Algérie takes place without controversy regarding player participation.
The incident highlights the importance of timely financial management in international football tournaments. The prompt resolution allowed the focus to return to the sporting aspect of the CAN event.
