Former Nigeria international Efe Sodje has expressed concern over Victor Boniface’s inconsistent performances for the Super Eagles, despite the striker’s growing reputation in Europe, Soccernet.ng reports.
Boniface, 23, has been a revelation at Bayer Leverkusen, playing a pivotal role in their historic Bundesliga title win last season.
He has carried that form into the new campaign, scoring three goals in his first four league matches, including a decisive strike in a thrilling 4-3 win against Wolfsburg.
However, Boniface has struggled to replicate his club’s success on the international stage.
In eight appearances for Nigeria, he has managed only one goal and one assist, leaving fans and critics alike questioning his impact.
While Victor Osimhen remains Nigeria’s undisputed first-choice striker when fit, some believe that pairing Boniface with Osimhen could make the Super Eagles even more dangerous in attack.
Despite this potential, Boniface’s recent performances in the Super Eagles’ AFCON qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda have been underwhelming.
Starting ahead of Osimhen in both matches, Boniface missed several key chances, although Nigeria still managed a 3-0 victory over Benin and a draw against Rwanda.
Former Luton Town defender Sodje has voiced his concerns about Boniface’s inconsistency for the national team.
Sodje emphasised the importance of the Super Eagles coach adapting to the players’ strengths, especially Boniface’s.
“Boniface is a good player, but he is just inconsistent (with the national team),” Sodje told Brila FM.
He also suggested tactical changes may be needed to accommodate both Boniface and Osimhen in the same lineup.
Sodje added, “The question is, can they play him and Osimhen together? Or will they have to play one and leave the other?
“That’s where the issue is, and they have to change the system.
“So whoever we get as coach needs to observe the players closely, know how he (Boniface) plays and sometimes adapts to his game.”
Sodje concluded by calling for the Super Eagles coaches to analyse Boniface’s style closely and adjust the team’s system accordingly.
Boniface will have another chance to prove his worth when Nigeria face Libya in the upcoming AFCON qualifying doubleheader in October.