Victor Boniface has shrugged off concerns about the weight of expectations ahead of Nigeria’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya on Friday, Soccernet.ng reports.
With star striker Victor Osimhen sidelined by injury, the Bayer Leverkusen forward is expected to lead the Super Eagles’ attack in the first of a two-legged tie.
Despite the attention on him, Boniface, Nigeria’s second most valuable player, insists he is not feeling the pressure.
The 23-year-old attacker remains confident in Nigeria’s squad depth and is ready to take advantage of his opportunity
“We have Awoniyi, we have Kelechi, and myself,” Boniface told ESPN.
“So anyone that is called upon will try to win the game, that is the most important thing.
“Why would the weight be on me? Like I said, we have other players, and we don’t know who will start, for now. But the three of us are ready to give one hundred percent for us to win.”
Boniface has yet to score in his eight competitive appearances for the Super Eagles, but his form at club level has been electric, with five goals in his last six Bundesliga matches.
Many hope he will bring that form into Friday’s match, where he may be filling the shoes of Osimhen, Nigeria’s leading striker.
Nigeria, boasting players like Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Kelechi Iheanacho, will be aiming to continue their strong start in the AFCON qualifiers.
Augustine Eguavoen’s men currently have four points from two matches, and Boniface’s presence could be key in securing maximum points from the Libyan challenge.
The first leg kicks off at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, with the second leg taking place on Tuesday at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Libya.
Libya’s Mediterranean Knights are struggling at the bottom of the group and will be looking for an upset to keep their qualification hopes alive.
This post was last modified on October 10, 2024 11:24 am
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