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Victor Boniface struggled in the AFCON 2025Q with the Super Eagles but has bounced back in style wit Bayer Leverkusen.
Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has emphatically returned to form for Bayer Leverkusen, putting his recent international struggles behind him with a stellar performance against Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga.
The 23-year-old forward had a difficult time during the recent AFCON 2025 qualifiers, failing to make a significant impact for the Super Eagles in their matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
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However, Boniface showed his true quality on Saturday afternoon, playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen's 4-1 away victory.
Boniface's influence was felt early in the match when he unselfishly assisted the opening goal for the Bundesliga champions.
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Finding himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, he opted to set up teammate Martin Terrier for an easy tap-in. The goal was initially disallowed but was awarded after a lengthy VAR review.
The Nigerian then got on the scoresheet himself with a moment of individual brilliance. Showcasing his skill and composure, Boniface bamboozled a defender with a clever dummy in the box before firing a low, precise shot into the net, putting Leverkusen 2-0 ahead.
Hoffenheim managed to pull one back before halftime, but Boniface's contribution had already set the tone for the match.
His second goal of the game was a repeat of the first, this time from the left wing and he finished off with a left-footed effort.
Interestingly, Boniface wasn't the only Nigerian player involved in the fixture. His compatriot Nathan Tella also started for the Bundesliga champions before being substituted in the second half.
On the opposing side, Nigerian centre-back Kevin Akpoguma featured in Hoffenheim's starting lineup.
This performance is a reminder of Boniface's resilience and ability to bounce back from setbacks. It also highlights the growing Nigerian presence in the Bundesliga, with three prominent players in this high-profile match.
Leverkusen’s other scorer on the day was youngster Florian Wirtz, who restored Bayer’s two-goal cushion before Boniface sealed the win and three points as they also bounced back to winning ways.
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After seeing their 35-match unbeaten run come to an end dramatically before the break, Xabi Alonso will be happy to see his champions back to winning ways and Boniface rediscovering his magic in front goal.
As Bayer look to defend their Bundesliga title, Boniface's return to form will be a welcome sight for both club and country. The young striker will be hoping to carry this momentum forward and translate it into success on the international stage when he next dons the Super Eagles jersey.
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