Former Nigeria international and Borussia Dortmund star Victor Ikpeba has expressed his admiration for Victor Boniface’s rise at Bayer Leverkusen, emphasizing that he is not surprised by the striker’s current form. Ikpeba described Boniface as a “special player” with exceptional qualities, referencing his performances at Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt and Belgian club St. Gilloise before joining Leverkusen.
“Boniface has performed well, but I’m not surprised with his current level. He’s a very good and talented boy,” Ikpeba told SportsBoom.com in an exclusive interview. “He’s a simple and humble guy, and under Xabi Alonso’s guidance at Bayer Leverkusen, he’s only going to get better.”
Leverkusen’s €20 million acquisition of Boniface last summer raised eyebrows, as the forward had yet to play in any of Europe’s top five leagues. However, he quickly silenced his critics, registering 31 goal involvements in 39 games, and playing a key role in ending the club’s 31-year trophy drought. Despite their loss to Atalanta in the Europa League final, Boniface has continued his momentum this season, scoring three goals and assisting once in his first five league games. He also scored the decisive goal in Leverkusen’s UEFA Champions League victory over AC Milan.
However, Boniface’s form for Nigeria has been more modest, with the forward yet to score in his first eight appearances for the national team. During Nigeria’s recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Boniface failed to find the back of the net, sparking criticism from fans.
Ikpeba urged patience, explaining that transitioning from club to international football can take time. “International football is different in style and rhythm,” Ikpeba noted. “At the club level, you’re playing with the same teammates for months, which helps performance. Boniface is still new to the national team, but the goals will come.”
Despite the growing scrutiny, Ikpeba remains confident that Boniface will make his mark on the national stage. When asked if Boniface could challenge Victor Osimhen for Nigeria’s first-choice striker position, Ikpeba responded, “Boniface will get his chance to shine. Osimhen himself had to wait for his time, and now he’s a key player.”
As Nigerian fans eagerly wait for Boniface to replicate his club success with the Super Eagles, Ikpeba’s message is clear: “Be patient, his moment will come.”
