Former Super Eagles defender Chikelue Iloenyosi has urged Nigerian fans to be patient with Victor Boniface, who has struggled to replicate his impressive club form in international matches, Soccernet.ng reports.
Despite emerging as one of the Bundesliga’s top forwards, Boniface has managed only one goal in nine appearances for Nigeria, raising concerns about his role in the national team.
Interestingly, Boniface’s club record is exemplary.
Since joining Bayer Leverkusen 16 months ago, he has netted 29 goals and provided 11 assists across 49 appearances in all competitions.
However, for Nigeria, his only goal in nine games came in a friendly 2-2 draw with Saudi Arabia in 2023.
With the striker included in the Super Eagles squad for upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda, Iloenyosi believes Boniface’s international breakthrough is just a matter of time.
“Nigeria does not have patience for failure, but Boniface is a fantastic player,” Iloenyosi told Premium Times.
“We need to give him time. He’s doing well in his club, and once he starts scoring for the country, he has the potential to become a top goalscorer.”
Iloenyosi praised the Bundesliga, describing it as “almost the best league in the world,” and emphasised how Boniface’s work ethic and fitness have helped him succeed in Germany.
“Bundesliga is all about fitness; if you’re not fit, you can’t play. Boniface is a fantastic player, very obedient, and a nice boy. I’m supporting him in everything.”
Boniface, along with Nigeria’s other key forwards like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, will be vital as caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen seeks to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Super Eagles face Benin at the Stade Félix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan on Thursday, followed by a match against Rwanda in Uyo on Monday.
Nigeria need only a single point from these two games to book their place in Morocco.