‘I’m not a bad player,’ Boniface opens up about Super Eagles struggles

Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface has opened up about his journey with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, admitting that the goals have not flowed as he had hoped but insisting his dedication to the national team remains unquestionable.

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Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface has opened up about his journey with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, admitting that the goals have not flowed as he had hoped but insisting his dedication to the national team remains unquestionable.

In a conversation with sports journalist Oma Akatugba, the 24-year-old striker acknowledged the mixed reactions to his performances for Nigeria but said he remains grateful and proud to wear the green and white jersey, a dream he has held since childhood.

In the interview on Thursday, he noted that his commitment to the team has never been in doubt, even though he has faced challenges converting chances on the big stage.

He explained that his dream of playing for the Super Eagles was fulfilled, but his time in the national colours has not yet reflected his true abilities.

According to him, struggles in a few games do not define who he is as a footballer, nor do they diminish his sense of pride each time he plays for Nigeria.

“I have been unlucky with the national team in terms of scoring goals, even though there were a couple of games where I was not good.

“My biggest dream as a football player was to represent my country, and I achieved this, and I am grateful for this.

“Because it has not worked well for me with the national team does not mean I am a bad player,” Boniface said.

Speaking further on his club career and the transfer window that saw him linked with AC Milan, Boniface said he has no regrets about how things played out.

“When the Milan deal didn’t go through, I was just relaxing with my friends. Things like that happen in football all the time,” he said, expressing contentment with his new chapter. “I love Germany. I really do.”

Victor Boniface is currently on loan at Werder Bremen from Bayer Leverkusen for the 2025/26 season.

The PUNCH