Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has called for patience from Nigerian football fans as he continues his search for his first competitive goal at the international level.
The 24-year-old forward has been in sensational form for Bayer Leverkusen, contributing immensely to their Bundesliga title-winning campaign under Xabi Alonso.
On Friday night, Boniface once again showcased his goal-scoring ability, netting in Leverkusen’s 3-1 victory over VfL Bochum.
His goal came in the second half, a well-taken close-range finish that took his tally to 11 goals this season across all competitions.
Despite his impressive club form, Boniface has struggled to replicate the same goal-scoring prowess for the Super Eagles, leading to mounting criticism from Nigerian supporters.
The striker was included in Nigeria’s squad for the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe but saw limited playing time, featuring for only nine minutes as Victor Osimhen reclaimed his starting role as the first-choice striker.
With Nigerian fans eager for more attacking firepower in the national team, Boniface’s inability to find the back of the net in competitive matches has drawn scrutiny.
So far, the former Union Saint-Gilloise and Bodø/Glimt striker has made 11 appearances for Nigeria, with just one goal—a non-competitive strike in a friendly match.
This lack of goals has frustrated some fans, who expected him to be a key contributor given his exceptional club form in Germany.
However, following his latest goal against Bochum, Boniface took to his Instagram page to send a message to Super Eagles supporters. He wrote:
“9ja plz be patient with me, the goal will come.”
His plea comes as a reminder that adapting to international football can take time, and even prolific club goal-scorers sometimes need patience before finding their rhythm at the national level.
Boniface’s situation is not unique, as many great strikers have experienced international goal droughts before eventually proving their worth.
With Nigeria currently fourth in their World Cup qualifying group after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo, the pressure on the team continues to mount.
The Super Eagles have crucial games ahead, and Boniface will be eager to break his scoring duck and contribute to Nigeria’s push for a World Cup spot.
Nigeria’s next international window in June presents a significant opportunity for the Leverkusen star to redeem himself.
The Super Eagles are expected to play a series of friendly matches as they prepare for their must-win September World Cup qualifiers.
These upcoming matches could be the perfect chance for Boniface to gain more minutes and finally score his first competitive goal for Nigeria.
With his talent and determination, fans will hope that his international breakthrough comes sooner rather than later.
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