Playoffs: Iwobi’s video of Super Eagles’ ’embarrassing hotel’ in Morocco draws massive criticism

Femi Fabunmi

As the Super Eagles prepare for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup African Playoffs in Morocco, Nigerians have expressed outrage over the team’s accommodation, PM News has scooped.

The controversy erupted after Alex Iwobi shared a video of the hotel in Rabat where the team is staying, sparking widespread criticism on social media.

The video shows old and poorly maintained buildings surrounding the hotel, with decayed satellite dishes and scattered clothes visible in the vicinity.

Many Nigerians quickly compared the area to dilapidated student hostels or police barracks in the country, describing it as embarrassing for a team representing the nation on such a big stage.

Traditionally, it is the responsibility of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to provide lodging for participating teams in international competitions.

However, national football associations, such as the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), can raise concerns and request alternative arrangements if the accommodations are deemed unsuitable.

Some fans argued that the surroundings could negatively affect the players’ morale and focus ahead of one of the most important matches in recent years.

Others expressed disappointment, saying that Nigerian footballers, many of whom are millionaires playing for top European clubs, deserve better treatment and respect.

Social Media Reactions:

@David Not I wrote, “Who else thought it was a school hostel?”
@Big Moe added, “You’re not there for pleasure. Get the job done, then we’ll talk about everything.”

@Zino commented, “This is why no one wants to play for Nigeria .”
X user Fatoki Solio said, “That hotel looks like a hostel in Federal College Ido Ani. NFF has done it again. How do you expect them to perform well in that environment?”

@Letter_to_Jack added, “These are top professionals, some are millionaires. This is not just incompetence — it shows lack of respect for our players.”

@Papitijo noted, “If you’ve read Atomic Habits, you’ll know that small things affect performance. If Nigeria doesn’t qualify, don’t blame the players — blame the NFF.”

Speaking to Peoples Gazette, a member of the Super Eagles’ contingent in Morocco, who requested anonymity, said the video was misleading. “Check the Rive Hotel online,” he said. “What you saw were buildings around the hotel, not the hotel itself.”

This is not the first time Nigerian teams have raised concerns about accommodations abroad.

Earlier this year, Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade complained about the rooms provided by CAF during the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.