Victor Boniface vs Newcastle: 3 things his stunning Bayer Leverkusen winner made clear

Victor Boniface gave Bayer Leverkusen a perfect boost before the new season with a late winner against Newcastle United at St James' Park, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigeria striker came off the bench in the 80th minute and scored only two minutes later to give Leverkusen a 2-1 win in their pre-season friendly on Saturday.

The result was decided by a moment of individual quality from the former Werder Bremen forward, who controlled the situation expertly before producing the finish that beat Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope.

Boniface can change a game in minutes

Boniface needed only two minutes to make his mark. Ibrahim Maza gave Leverkusen the lead one minute into the match, but Newcastle fought back before the break. Malick Thiaw equalised in the 44th minute to make it 1-1 at half-time.

Leverkusen then turned to Boniface in the closing stages. He entered the match in the 80th minute and quickly gave Newcastle's defence a new problem. Two minutes later, he produced the decisive moment.

The goal showed that Boniface does not need a long spell on the pitch to influence a match. His ability to enter late and score can give Leverkusen another attacking option when games are tight.

His confidence is back after his injury problems

Boniface's goal was also important because of the problems he has had with injuries. The striker has missed periods of action during his time at Leverkusen, which has affected his rhythm and his ability to build a long run of games.

His display at St James' Park offered a different picture. He moved with purpose after coming on and did not look hesitant when the chance arrived. The finish was controlled rather than rushed, despite the pressure of a close match against Premier League opposition.

With the 2026/27 season approaching, that is a strong sign for Leverkusen. Boniface looked ready to compete for a regular role and add goals to the German team's attack.

He can handle pressure in difficult away games

Boniface also showed that he can stay calm when the pressure is high. St James' Park is one of the most demanding stadiums in English football, and Newcastle had already recovered from an early setback to level the game before half-time.

The match looked set for a draw until Boniface changed it. His 82nd-minute winner gave Leverkusen victory in front of a home crowd that had seen Newcastle fight back from 1-0 down. Instead of forcing the chance, Boniface kept his composure, beat his marker and delivered the finish that decided the game.

The goal gives Leverkusen another reason to trust him in important moments as the new campaign approaches.