*”I Didn’t Say Anything, Just Showed Video” Says Iwobi Clarifies Post After Viral Footage Shows Cracked Walls, Possible Mold
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has come out in strong defense of the team’s accommodation choices for the Super Eagles ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff semi-final against Gabon, dismissing viral concerns about the Rive Hotel as a misunderstanding of its exterior views.
Football journalist Adepoju Tobi Samuel, quoting the Super Eagles’ media officer, clarified that the team is indeed based at the Rive Hotel in Rabat. “What trended earlier was the view of an old building that can be seen from a window,” the statement read. “Rive was chosen because of its proximity to the team’s training facility and the stadium here in Rabat.”
The controversy erupted hours earlier when Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi shared a video on social media showcasing what appeared to be the rundown surroundings and interior of the hotel. The footage, which quickly went viral, revealed visibly cracked walls, signs of possible mold, and an overall substandard state that fans likened to a “school hostel.” This prompted widespread outrage online, with supporters criticizing the NFF for alleged neglect and inadequate welfare arrangements for the national team ahead of their high-stakes clash with Gabon on November 13 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Iwobi, the Fulham midfielder, later addressed the backlash, emphasizing that his post was not intended as criticism. “I didn’t say anything; I just showed the video,” he was quoted as saying, suggesting the content had been taken out of context. The incident has ignited a heated online debate about the treatment of Nigerian players abroad and serves as a stark reminder of the power and risks of viral social media content.
Despite the lodging uproar, preparations for the playoff are progressing steadily. Twelve players have already checked into camp, blending tactical drills with team bonding sessions under Coach Eric Chelle. Early arrivals include Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, William Troost-Ekong, Benjamin Frederick, Chidozie Awaziem, Amas Obasogie, and Stanley Nwabali.
Nine more players are expected to join today, rounding out Chelle’s 24-man roster. Fans on X have been vocal in their praise for the prompt arrivals and are eagerly anticipating the full squad’s assembly, particularly the inclusion of star striker Victor Osimhen.
Super Eagles media officer, Promise Efoghe;
“The Super eagles are camped at Rive Hotel. 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… pic.twitter.com/XlvJj4JLFq
— Adepoju Tobi Samuel (@OgaNlaMedia) November 10, 2025
Nigeria earned their spot in this playoff round by finishing second in Group C behind South Africa. A victory over Gabon would propel the Super Eagles into the final on November 16 against either DR Congo or Cameroon. The ultimate winner will advance to the intercontinental playoffs in March 2026, where a berth at the FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico hangs in the balance.
.. “What Trended Was View Of Old Building From Window” — NFF Defends Rive Hotel Choice, Says Proximity To Training Facility Key … NewsNGR.
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