From 1981 to 2025: How Bonus Disputes Haunted Nigeria’s World Cup Dreams

From 1981 to 2025: How Bonus Disputes Haunted Nigeria’s World Cup Dreams

By Admin 

Super Eagles may have returned to training ahead of Thursday’s crucial World Cup playoff against Gabon in Rabat, but history suggests the damage from their brief strike could already be done, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Over the past four decades, every player revolt or pay dispute within the national team has coincided with a painful defeat, often one that derailed the country’s World Cup ambitions.

A Troubled History of Strikes and Setbacks

The pattern dates back to 1981, when Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 1982 World Cup in Spain collapsed amid internal discord. Ahead of a decisive qualifier against Algeria in Lagos, home-based players protested after learning that their foreign-based teammates including; Tunji Banjo, Thompson Usiyen, Chris Nwokocha, and Andrew Atuegbu were promised ₦5,000 each in bonuses, a significant sum at the time.

The dispute disrupted preparations and team unity. Nigeria went on to lose 2–0 at home and eventually 4–1 on aggregate, missing out on Spain ’82.

A similar episode unfolded in 1989, before a must-win qualifier against Cameroon for Italia ’90. The team, camped at the Durbar Hotel in Lagos, refused to depart for Yaoundé until their bonuses were paid. Their flight, scheduled for 10 a.m., did not leave until six hours later. Nigeria went on to lose 1–0, crashing out of contention.

The trend continued on the global stage at France ’98, when the Super Eagles threatened to boycott their Round of 16 match against Denmark over unpaid allowances. Last-minute negotiations stretched into match day, leaving the squad fatigued and distracted. Nigeria were routed 4–1, ending a promising tournament on a sour note.

Fast forward to Brazil 2014, and history repeated itself. Nigeria along with Ghana made international headlines after players boycotted training before their Round of 16 tie against France. The Nigerian government intervened, flying in cash to settle outstanding payments. Despite the resolution, the Super Eagles lost 2–0 and were eliminated.

Echoes of the Past

This week’s strike reportedly over unpaid allowances may have been brief, but it rekindles memories of those past crises. With Nigeria set to face Gabon in Rabat for a place in the final stage of World Cup qualifying, many fans fear history could once again repeat itself.

For a team seeking redemption after missing the 2022 World Cup, the timing of internal unrest could not be worse. Whether the Super Eagles can overcome the latest off-field turbulence remains to be seen.