Bundesliga: Boniface’s brilliance powers Bayer Leverkusen past Borussia Monchengladbach in Rhine derby

Boniface just arrived at Leverkusen this summer, but he has adjusted quickly and is delivering the goods for his club

Nigerian striker Victor Boniface scored a brace for Bayer Leverkusen in their 3-0 victory over Borussia Monchengladbach at Borussia Park, Soccernet reports.

Boniface just joined Bayer Leverkusen from Belgian club Royale Union SG this summer, but he has taken to his new club like fish to water.

The 22-year-old attacker got an assist in Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga opener against RB Leipzig, and coach Xabi Alonso gave him the nod to lead Die Werkself’s attack when they visited Borussia Monchengladbach for the Rhine derby.

Boniface did not start well, as he was yellow-carded in the 16th minute after a bad foul. However, he made up for his mistakes two minutes later. The former Royale Union SG man showed his ability and speed as he quickly reacted to a lofted header from Alejandro Grimaldo as he was running through on goal and sent a header into the Monchengladbach net to make it 1-0.

The home side tried to pull one back, but Bayer Leverkusen held on tight and got their second goal through Jonathan Tah just before the break.

However, Die Werkself were not done. Boniface had a super game, getting involved with the play, and keeping the Monchengladbach backline on their toes. The Nigerian striker was just too good to be kept quiet for so long, and he showed how deadly he could be again in the 53rd minute.

Boniface combined well with Florian Wirtz, who sent a through pass into the box to set him free on goal. The 22-year-old striker did not make any mistake from close range as he struck the ball into the net despite pressure from a defender.

Boniface’s brilliance was the difference eventually, as it ended 3-0 in Bayer Leverkusen’s favour. He was taken off for Puerto Molano in the 88th minute.