Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has addressed the controversy surrounding a viral video that sparked outrage among Nigerian football fans. The Fulham star clarified that the widely circulated clip showing a dilapidated building was misinterpreted and doesn’t reflect the team’s actual accommodation in Morocco.
The video, which quickly spread across social media platforms, appeared to show substandard living conditions ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon. Many supporters mistakenly believed the footage depicted the Super Eagles’ hotel, criticizing it as unfit for a national team.
Team spokesperson Babafemi Efoghe explained the confusion: “What trended earlier was the view of an old building visible from a window. The Rive Hotel was specifically chosen for its proximity to both our training facility and the match stadium in Rabat.”
Iwobi personally addressed the situation through Snapchat, emphasizing his original post was taken out of context. “I didn’t say anything; I just showed the video,” the midfielder stated. “It’s about perspective. People assumed we were complaining, but I never said a word. Some people don’t even have beds.”
The 27-year-old confirmed his comfort and focus on the upcoming match. “I’m comfy here playing Mario Kart. Now I need to concentrate – we have a big game coming up,” Iwobi added, dismissing notions of player dissatisfaction.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles have intensified preparations for Thursday’s decisive qualifier. Eighteen players are currently training at the Rive Hotel in Rabat as Nigeria seeks vital points against Gabon.