Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface is a paradox: one player for his club, Bayer Leverkusen, and seemingly another for Nigeria.
Since making his debut for Nigeria on September 10, 2023, under former coach José Peseiro, the 24-year-old forward has yet to find the back of the net for the national team.
In contrast, he has been scoring freely in Germany, leaving Nigerian fans frustrated.
His closest attempt at scoring for Nigeria came in a friendly match against Saudi Arabia in October 2023, where a goal initially credited to him was later ruled an own goal.
While he has since gone on to score 38 goals for Leverkusen, he remains without one for the Super Eagles after 12 appearances.
The disappointment grew stronger during the last international window, especially after Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Many fans questioned the commitment of certain players, including Boniface, feeling they did not put in the same effort as they do for their clubs.
Adding fuel to the fire, just days after returning to Germany, Boniface scored in Leverkusen’s 3-1 win over Bochum.
However, all hope is not lost. Boniface can still win over the fans by taking key steps to improve his standing with the Super Eagles.
Here are three things he can do.
Break his International goal drought
Boniface has played 12 games for Nigeria, starting seven and coming off the bench in five, accumulating 594 minutes of game time without a goal.
For a striker who scores regularly for his club, the pressure to replicate that form with Nigeria is immense.
With the next international window set for June, breaking his goal duck should be a priority.
Finding the net would not only silence critics but also boost his confidence as the Super Eagles prepare for crucial World Cup qualifiers.
A goal would lift a huge weight off his shoulders and buy him some patience from the fans.
Show more effort on the pitch
One of the biggest criticisms Boniface faces is his perceived lack of intensity in Super Eagles games, especially when compared to Victor Osimhen, who is known for his relentless pressing and work rate.
While Boniface and Osimhen are different types of strikers, many fans feel the Leverkusen man needs to show more urgency, press opponents harder, and be more involved in the game.
At times, his laid-back style has been mistaken for disinterest, which has not helped his case.
By working harder off the ball and contributing to the team’s defensive efforts, he can earn more respect from Nigerian supporters.
Connect more with the fans
Boniface is known for his playful personality on social media, often sharing memes and humorous posts.
However, with fans growing impatient over his performances for Nigeria, he must use these platforms to engage in a more wholesome, heartfelt fashion and reassure them of his commitment to the national team.
He has already taken a step in the right direction by recently posting a message asking for patience and support for himself and his teammates.
If he continues to communicate openly with fans, show his dedication, and work on his performances, he can gradually turn doubters into supporters.
If Boniface can score for Nigeria, put in more effort on the pitch, and actively engage with the fans, he will be well on his way to becoming a fan favourite in the Super Eagles squad.
