)
In a bitter twist of fate for both Bayer Leverkusen and the Nigerian national team, star forward Victor Boniface has undergone successful surgery following a severe muscle tendon injury.
This devastating blow comes just as the Super Eagles were ramping up their preparations for the 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Boniface's injury woe: A Crushing blow for club and country
The injury, a muscle tendon tear in the right adductor area, occurred during a training session in Dubai. The severity of this injury immediately necessitated Boniface's departure from the Nigerian camp, sending him back to his club in Germany for urgent medical attention. Leverkusen's management confirmed the news of his successful surgery via their official X account, formerly known as Twitter.
Road to Recovery: Three-Month hiatus ahead
Despite the success of the surgery, the road to recovery for Boniface is not a short one. The 23-year-old striker, who has been instrumental in Leverkusen's ascent to the Bundesliga summit, faces a three-month rehabilitation period. This timeline effectively rules him out of a significant chunk of the season, including 18 crucial games for both his club and the Nigerian national team.
Boniface, with a commendable tally of ten goals in 16 appearances, was a top contender to shine in the 2023 AFCON. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by both Leverkusen and the Super Eagles.
In light of Boniface's unfortunate exit, Nigeria has called upon OGC Nice's Terem Moffi to fill the void. The Super Eagles, undeterred by this setback, remain steadfast in their quest for their first continental triumph in a decade.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)