Bayer Leverkusen looked like they would settle for a draw, but Boniface turned up clutch for his side
Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface scored a last-minute penalty to help Qarabag to a tough 1-0 victory at the Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, Soccernet reports.
Die Werkself returned to continental action with a game against Azerbaijani side Qarabag on Wednesday. Bayer Leverkusen have been in top form since the start of the season. They had won their last ten games across all competitions and were favourites to win again.
Nigeria attacker Victor Boniface led the line for Xabi Alonso's men, and Nathan Tella flanked him, but the night did not go according to the plan.
The home team put up a dogged performance, ensuring that it remained goalless till halftime. Boniface got a chance to score seven minutes into the second half, but he fired wide. In the 82nd minute, the Nigeria striker had another opportunity to score via a header. But his header was saved by the goalkeeper.
It looked like the game would end goalless, but Bayer Leverkusen won a penalty at the tail end of the game.
Boniface took charge of the responsibility and finished with aplomb to ensure the game ended 1-0 to the Germans. The win sealed Bayer Leverkusen's spot in the next round of the Europa League. Boniface now has three goals in the competition.
