More blow for Super Eagles as injury rules Victor Boniface out of AFCON 2023–reports

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are slated to kick off their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament on January 14 against Equatorial Guinea

Super Eagles and Bayer Leverkusen forward, Victor Boniface, is set for an early departure from Jose Peseiro’s squad due to injury, Soccernet.ng reports.

Numerous reports from Nigerian media outlets indicate that the Germany-based player sustained a muscle injury during training in Abu Dhabi.

Unfortunately, this injury prevented his participation in Nigeria’s 12-0 victory against a local Abu Dhabi club and their subsequent loss to Guinea in a preparatory match ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

Confirming the news, the prolific Leverkusen forward bid farewell to the Super Eagles squad through his social media, writing on his Instagram page, “Good luck, guys. Wish you all the best at AFCON.”

 

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For Xabi Alonso's men, Boniface's contributions were notable, with 16 goals and eight assists in 23 appearances, establishing him as a key player to watch in the African Nations Cup.

Regrettably, this injury will sideline the Nigerian international from his first AFCON tournament, with reports indicating a six-week recovery period due to a groin injury.

In light of this setback, the Super Eagles coaching staff now face the task of identifying the best replacement for the talented striker. Rumors suggest that Terem Moffi or Cyriel Dessers might be selected from Peseiro's previous 40-man provisional squad.