World Cup Playoffs: Iwobi denies criticising Eagles’ lodging, says ‘I only shared video’

A new twist has emerged in the controversy surrounding a video shared by Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi, which appeared to show substandard lodging ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff match in Morocco.

The video, which went viral on social media, drew sharp criticism from Nigerian fans who described the facility as “unbefitting” for the national team.

Many compared it to a school hostel, prompting a heated online debate about the treatment of Nigerian players abroad.

In response to the growing uproar, Iwobi emphasised that he did not make any derogatory comments about the hotel.

“I didn’t say anything; I just showed the video,” the Fulham midfielder was quoted as saying, suggesting that his post was taken out of context.

Reacting to the issue, the Nigeria Football Federation said the Super Eagles are camped at RIVE Hotel, noting that what trended earlier was the view of an old building that can be seen from a window.

“RIVE was chosen because of its proximity to the team’s training facility and the stadium here in Rabat,” NFF said.

The Super Eagles are now focused on preparing for the high-stakes World Cup qualifier against Morocco, while the lodging controversy serves as a reminder of the power—and the risks—of viral content on social media.

PUNCH Online had reported that Iwobi shared a video showing the condition of the hotel provided for the team ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-off match in Morocco against Gabon.
Source: Punch