Nigeria and Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface has been handed a one-game suspension and a hefty fine after being found guilty of unsportsmanlike conduct during his team's recent Super Cup match against VfB Stuttgart, Soccernet.ng reports.
The German Football Association (DFB) announced the decision on Wednesday, following an investigation into an incident that took place immediately after the final whistle of the match.
According to a statement from the DFB sports court, Boniface will be banned from participating in one DFB Cup match and fined €25,000 (approx. ₦43.8 million).
The punishment was issued after the DFB Control Committee charged the 23-year-old with “blatantly anti-sporting conduct.”
The incident in question involved Boniface allegedly making an obscene gesture — raising his middle finger — towards Stuttgart players as he ran past them during post-match celebrations.
Referee Tobias Stieler, who officiated the game, confirmed that he did not witness the gesture, which allowed the DFB's control committee to pursue further investigation.
Despite the lack of TV footage or concrete evidence, Stuttgart players accused Boniface of the offensive act, leading to a heated exchange and tensions on the pitch.
The Nigerian international and his club, Bayer Leverkusen, have accepted the verdict, making the suspension and fine legally binding.
The incident has sparked controversy, especially given Boniface's rising reputation in Germany.
Last season, he was named Rookie of the Year following a stellar debut campaign, which played a crucial role in Leverkusen's historic Bundesliga triumph.
Boniface’s actions during the Super Cup have marred what was otherwise a celebratory moment for Leverkusen.
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