Ex-Super Eagles star defends Boniface amidst retirement rumours

Former Super Eagles and Anderlecht defender, Mobi Patrick Oparaku, has urged Nigerians to be more patient in their treatment of Bayer 04 Leverkusen striker, Victor Okoh Boniface, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a brilliant debut season with Die Werkself, winning the DFB Pokal and the Bundesliga titles, and earning himself a call-up to the Nigerian National team, although he missed the AFCON 2023 tournament due to an adductor problem.

For all of Boniface's excellence in Germany, he has yet to replicate the same form for the Super Eagles. Although he's been largely a second fiddle to Victor Osimhen in the national team, he's not been impressive whenever he has an opportunity to start.

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Boniface was given a rare start by Eric Chelle against Russia last Friday, but again, his performance fell short, as he mustered just one shot on target and completed eight passes in his time on the pitch before he made way for Tolu Arokodare in the 61st minute.

The Genk striker scored the equaliser for the Super Eagles, which was his first for the Nigerian National team. On the flip side, a frustrated Boniface took to his Instagram Page to announce his retirement from the Super Eagles.

He eventually took the post down, but his decision sparked several conversations as to whether a mentality like his is right for the three-time AFCON Champions.

However, Oparaku jumped to the defence of the former Union Saint-Gilloise striker, claiming his effort on the pitch should at least count for something.

“It has been a long season, most players are already mentally fatigued and just want to go on break.

“He is a good player who has simply struggled to find his best form with the Super Eagles, but Boniface is not a player who doesn’t show heart on the pitch,” the ex-Enyimba International defender told Brila.

While Boniface's troubles in the National Team continue, his club manager, Erik Ten Hag, has urged him to find a new club, as he's not a part of his plans for the 2025/2026 season.