‘Only God knows’- Unlucky Boniface laments early AFCON 2023 exit

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are slated to kick off their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations journey in less than six days

Super Eagles forward, Victor Boniface, expressed disappointment over his premature departure from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, Soccernet.ng reports.

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

Regrettably, this injury sidelined him from participating in Nigeria’s preparatory matches, including a 12-0 victory against a local Abu Dhabi club and a subsequent loss to Guinea.

Reflecting on his exit, Boniface drew parallels with a past experience in the U-20 youth tournament, where an injury saw him miss out just days before the competition.

In a statement on his X (formerly Twitter) page, he expressed his sentiments: “U20 Nations Cup got injured seven days before the Nations Cup. Super Eagles got injured six days before the Nations Cup. Only GOD Knows why.”

U20 nations cup got injured 7 days before nations cup

Super eagles got injured 6days before Nations cup

Na Only GOD Knows why
🙏 pic.twitter.com/BMJv8p9Jqs

— Victor Boniface (@boniface_jrn) January 8, 2024

Boniface's absence presents a setback for the Super Eagles, given his notable contributions to Leverkusen with 16 goals and eight assists in 23 appearances, establishing him as a significant player for the African Nations Cup.

Unfortunately, this injury sidelines the Nigerian international from his debut AFCON tournament, with reports indicating a six-week recovery period due to a groin injury.

In response, the Super Eagles coaching staff now face the challenge of identifying an apt replacement for the talented striker. Reports suggest that Terem Moffi is poised to be selected from Peseiro's previous 40-man provisional squad.