Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has expressed his immense pride in representing Nigeria, describing it as his ultimate career dream. The 23-year-old forward, who has made a significant impact since arriving in Europe, emphasized that no achievement in his career holds greater meaning than donning the green and white jersey of the Super Eagles.
Boniface’s debut for the Nigerian national team came in September 2023, during an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against São Tomé and Príncipe.
The young star was introduced as a second-half substitute and made an immediate impact by assisting Nigeria’s final goal in a commanding 6-0 victory.
Reflecting on the experience, Boniface revealed just how much it meant to him.
“For me, it is a dream to represent a country like Nigeria,” Boniface told the official Bundesliga website.
“We have almost 300 million people. To be part of like 20 or 30 players representing the country is the biggest dream for me because watching people playing and representing the country when I was a kid – to be part of the national team was a dream for me.
I was really happy to be a part of it.”
Boniface’s rise to prominence in European football has been nothing short of remarkable.
Since his arrival on the continent five years ago, he has racked up an impressive 62 goals and 30 assists across 152 appearances for Bodø/Glimt, Union SG, and Bayer Leverkusen.
His standout performances in the Bundesliga during the 2023 season earned him the prestigious Rookie of the Year award and a spot in the league’s Team of the Season.
Despite his rapid ascent, Boniface remains grounded, choosing to focus on self-improvement rather than comparing himself to established goal-scoring legends.
When asked if he considers himself on the same level as Harry Kane or Serhou Guirassy, Boniface was quick to deflect the comparison.
“I can’t say for any of them. They are top, top players—top strikers.
Harry Kane has been doing this for so many years, the same as Guirassy.
I learned a lot from these guys because I watched a lot of them before, but now I am focusing on myself,” he said. “Many people might be thinking I might be on the same level, but I am focusing on how to improve and how to help my team.
I don’t really think about competing with anybody.
I just try to go on the pitch, have fun, win games, and help my team.”
However, Boniface’s journey has not been without challenges.
He recently faced disciplinary action after being found guilty of inappropriate conduct during Bayer Leverkusen’s Super Cup victory over VfB Stuttgart.
As a result, the forward was handed a one-match ban and fined €25,000.
Despite this setback, Boniface is available for selection as Bayer Leverkusen prepares to face Borussia Mönchengladbach in their opening league match of the season.
With his focus firmly set on contributing to his team’s success and continuing his development, Boniface remains a promising talent for both Bayer Leverkusen and the Nigerian national team.
His determination to improve and his passion for representing Nigeria serve as driving forces in his blossoming career.
