Victor Boniface faces brief spell on sidelines with thigh injury

Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface is set to miss upcoming matches due to a minor thigh injury sustained during Nigeria’s 2-1 loss to Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The Super Eagles forward was substituted in the 89th minute of the game in Uyo.

Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso confirmed the injury during his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s Bundesliga fixture against Heidenheim.

While addressing concerns, Alonso dismissed reports suggesting Boniface could be sidelined for up to two months.

He has a small injury in his thigh muscles, Alonso told Allgemeine Zeitung. But it won’t be for six to eight weeks.

We hope that he can play again this year. We now have to wait and see how he recovers.

Despite struggling to find his scoring touch for the Super Eagles, Boniface has been in excellent form for Leverkusen this season.

The 23-year-old has contributed six goals and one assist in 10 Bundesliga appearances, cementing his role as a pivotal player under Alonso.

As the Bundesliga leaders push for a strong finish to 2024, Boniface’s recovery will be closely monitored, with fans and the club hopeful for his swift return.