Former Borussia Dortmund forward Victor Ikpeba has come forward to advocate for patience regarding the performance of Victor Boniface with the Super Eagles.
Victor Ikpeba claims that the Bayer Leverkusen star, who delivered 21 goals and 10 assists in Bundesliga last season, deserves more time to adapt to the demands of international football.
The 51-year-old ex-international highlighted the stark differences between club and national team play.
He explained that while club players enjoy months of training and bonding with teammates, national teams often consist of players coming together from various clubs.
Ikpeba urges patience for Victor Boniface as he adapts to Super Eagles role
This transition, he noted, can be challenging, and often requires time for players to build chemistry and understanding on the pitch.
“Sometimes, players need time to adapt to the national team. International football is different from club football, both in style and rhythm. At the club level, you spend months training and playing with the same teammates, which helps your performance,” Ikpeba explained.
“Victor is still relatively new to the national team and is adjusting to playing with unfamiliar teammates. I believe the goals will come. He came very close to scoring against Rwanda, so he just needs to focus on his game, especially with the competition for his position.”
The former AS Monaco star pointed out that even established players like Victor Osimhen faced similar challenges early in their international careers.
“Nigerian fans need to be patient; the goals will come. Even Victor Osimhen took time to settle and start scoring consistently for the national team,” he concluded.
