Victor Boniface: Ready to Shine for Nigeria as He Hopes to Transfer His Club Form to the National Team

The more Bayer Leverkusen continues to soar under the guidance of manager Xabi Alonso, one player whose performances have captured the imagination of fans home and abroad is none other than Victor Boniface. 

The Nigerian forward has been in sparkling form for the Bundesliga outfit, establishing himself as one of Europe’s rising stars. 

Boniface opened up about his club form, national team aspirations, and his quest for that elusive first goal in the green and white jersey.

Leverkusen’s Electric Start: Aiming for European Glory

Leverkusen has had an electric start to their campaign this season, both domestically and in Europe. After clinching the Bundesliga title last season, Xabi Alonso’s side has looked even more formidable, storming into the UEFA Champions League with dominant performances.

"The way we’ve started the season, especially in the Champions League, has been fantastic," Boniface said, reflecting on Leverkusen’s unbeaten run in Europe. 

From last season till this moment, Boniface himself has played a crucial role in their European competition campaigns, contributing with goals and assists as Leverkusen made, and are currently making a serious push in Europe.

When asked whether European success is now the focus, given that the club lifted the Bundesliga trophy last season, Boniface remained ambitious yet grounded.

"Winning the Bundesliga last season was special, but we’re not resting on that. Of course, we want to do well in Europe," he said.”

We’ve started strong, but we’re taking it step by step. We know how difficult the Champions League is, so we’re keeping our heads down and working hard," he concluded.

Boniface’s Rise Under Xabi Alonso

With six goals and an assist already to his name this season, Boniface has become a key figure for Leverkusen, helping them climb the Bundesliga table and perform impressively in Europe.

Fans have seen him grow in confidence, and he attributes that to the trust placed in him by his manager and teammates. 
"Xabi Alonso has been a great influence," Boniface shared.

"He understands the game so well, and his instructions have helped me become a better player. I’m learning a lot every day, and I’m hungry to keep improving."

National Team Goals: Patience and Determination

Despite his club success, Boniface is yet to make the same kind of impact for Nigeria. The forward has made a few appearances for the national team but is still searching for his first goal.

When asked if this was a concern for him, Boniface remained calm but determined.

"No, the goals are coming, I'm not stressing about it. As long as we are winning, no problem.”

"I'm not the kind of guy that put pressure on myself. The goals will come. It's football, sometimes it happens like this."

The Bundesliga star, when asked about what the fans should be expecting from the team, was explicit about the team giving its all. As it's a signifying symbol for the country.

Fan Expectations

Boniface recognizes that there are high expectations from Nigerian fans, especially with the team looking to secure qualifications for Afcon 2025.

He urged fans to remain patient and supportive, promising that the team is working hard to deliver the desired results.

"The fans should expect a team that will give everything. We’re all focused on making sure we represent Nigeria the right way, and I’m confident that we can achieve great things together."

As for his personal targets with Nigeria, Boniface’s focus remains on team success above all else. 
"I’m not worried about personal milestones, to be honest.

"My main goal is to help the team win. If that means scoring goals, then great, but if it means assisting or just working hard for the team, that’s fine too. The most important thing is that Nigeria comes out on top."