Liverpool manager, Arne Slot pointed to a tactical shift that hampered Nigeria’s star forward, Victor Boniface during Bayer Leverkusen’s 4-0 Champions League loss at Anfield.

On matchday four, Bayer Leverkusen suffered their first Champions League defeat of the season.

After a goalless draw in the first half, Liverpool took control in the second half, breaking the deadlock in the 61st minute.

Luis Diaz stole the spotlight with his first hat-trick for Liverpool, while Cody Gakpo added a goal to seal a decisive win for the Reds.

Boniface, who has been in impressive form for Leverkusen, was surprisingly positioned on the left flank by head coach Xabi Alonso.

This unusual setup seemed to diminish Boniface’s attacking impact, limiting his usual goal-scoring threat.

In a post-match conference, Slot highlighted Alonso’s tactical gamble, suggesting it contributed to Leverkusen’s struggles.

“Like many times now, managers change their game plan when they come to Anfield or when they play us – that’s also what we saw today (Tuesday),” Slot commented.

Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface lies on the ground after a tackle. (Photo by Federico Gambarini/picture alliance via Getty Images)

“We’ve seen a lot of games from Leverkusen, but I’ve never seen Boniface playing from the left. They played without a traditional number nine, which is why they overloaded the midfield.

“It was quite difficult to press them high, but the good thing was that we hardly conceded anything. I think, during the first half, if there were chances, they were for us.”

Boniface’s performance stats reflected his struggle in this unfamiliar role as he registered three shots off target, made 30 touches, and won just two of five ground duels and one of four aerial duels.

Dispossessed ten times, he was eventually substituted in the 81st minute, with Patrik Schick taking his place.