The Super Eagles have responded to growing online discussions about their accommodation in Morocco, explaining that the team’s hotel selection was guided by practicality and preparation needs rather than luxury.
The clarification came after a short video shared by midfielder Alex Iwobi went viral on social media, showing a modest view from his hotel window.
The clip prompted a wave of mixed reactions from fans who questioned the quality of the team’s lodging ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifier against Gabon.
In a statement released on Sunday, Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe said the players are currently staying at the Rive Hotel in Rabat. He explained that the choice was strategic, focusing on convenience and logistics.
“The Super Eagles are camped at the Rive Hotel. What went viral earlier was simply the view of an old building seen from one of the windows,” Efoghe clarified. “Rive was chosen because of its close proximity to the team’s training ground and the match venue here in Rabat.”
The Nigerian camp is gradually filling up, with 14 players already in Morocco.
The list includes Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, William Troost-Ekong, Benjamin Frederick, Chidozie Awaziem, Amas Obasogie, Stanley Nwabali, Semi Ajayi, and Ademola Lookman.
Another seven players are expected to arrive before the end of the day as preparations intensify.
While the Confederation of African Football (CAF) typically oversees hotel arrangements for national teams during qualifiers and tournaments, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) retains the option to make alternative requests if necessary.
This isn’t the first time Nigerian teams have voiced dissatisfaction over accommodation standards during continental competitions. Earlier this year, Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade criticised CAF’s lodging arrangements during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, also hosted in Morocco.
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The Super Eagles will take on Gabon on November 13 in what promises to be a decisive encounter.
The winner of the tie will advance to face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the next stage of qualifiers. A victory there would secure a place in the intercontinental playoffs, moving Nigeria one step closer to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
