World Cup 2026 playoffs: Alex Iwobi sparks controversy in Morocco | OneFootball

Alex Iwobi

This November, Nigeria is in Morocco for the 2026 World Cup playoffs. Alex Iwobi has stirred up controversy.

In recent hours, Alex Iwobi has ignited a debate after posting a short video on Snapchat. In the clip, the Nigerian appears to poke fun at the Rabat hotel where his team is staying ahead of their clash with Gabon in the World Cup 2026 playoff semi-finals. The Fulham player films his room and the view of some modest apartment buildings, making a face without saying a word—a gesture interpreted by many as criticism of the hotel's standard.

On social media, the video quickly sparked a wave of reactions, particularly from Moroccan fans who accused him of disrespect and pointed out that hotel arrangements are made by the Nigerian Football Federation. Iwobi responded yesterday with a new video from his hotel bed, attempting to defuse the situation. "I saw people making jokes—it’s just a matter of perspective. Because I snapped the view, people said: this guy isn’t grateful. But I didn’t say a word. I just looked like this (he mimics the same look and grimace). I’m comfortable, I’m playing Mario Kart. Let me focus. We have a big game coming up," he said.