Super Eagles and Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface had a phenomenal season with his club, leading them to an undefeated Bundesliga title and a DFB Pokal Cup victory, where they triumphed over Kaiserslautern in the final.
His impressive performance included 21 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, which also propelled Leverkusen to the UEFA Europa League final, though they fell short with a 3-0 defeat to Atalanta, a match featuring his Super Eagles teammate Ademola Lookman.
However, while Boniface's club success has been remarkable, his journey with the Nigerian national team has faced some challenges.
He was a key player in Nigeria’s initial FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, contributing to two draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.
Victor Boniface's AFCON regret
Unfortunately, an injury ruled him out of the Africa Cup of Nations, a setback he deeply regrets.
The striker told afrik-foot.com, ahead of Nigeria's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa in Uyo, that missing the Africa Cup of Nations was a huge disappointment for him and he wished he was there to help the team even though they did well to reach the final.
“It's a regret, but they did well without me. They reached the final, and although they didn't win, their performance was amazing and I am proud of them,” Boniface stated.
Boniface is now back with the Super Eagles and is expected to lead the attack against Bafana Bafana on Friday, stepping in for the injured first-choice striker, Victor Osimhen.
The former Union Saint-Gilloise forward emphasised the importance of a collective team effort to secure a win.
We have to be at our best – Victor Boniface
“It is a crucial game for us, and we have to be at our best, “Boniface said.
“We need to show what we are capable. “It's not just about me; it's about the whole team. We will give our hundred percent.
“I am glad to be back with the team and will do my best on match day.” the striker added.
Nigeria currently sit third in Group C, trailing behind unexpected leaders Rwanda and South Africa.
Securing three points against South Africa is critical for their FIFA World Cup qualification hopes, a challenge Boniface acknowledges with determination.
