33
Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has expressed his frustration over Victor Boniface’s underwhelming performances for the national team, despite the striker’s impressive form at the club level.
Boniface, a standout forward for Bayer Leverkusen, is currently regarded as one of the best strikers in Europe. With 8 goals and assists this season, he is among the highest-scoring Nigerian players in Europe. However, his performances for the Super Eagles have been far from prolific, with just one goal in 11 appearances.
In the final AFCON qualifiers, Boniface was substituted during Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against Benin Republic and started in the shocking 2-1 home loss to Rwanda on Monday. His inability to replicate his club form has become a major talking point.
Speaking during the post-match press conference after the defeat to Rwanda, Eguavoen admitted his efforts to boost Boniface’s confidence had not yielded the desired results.
“We know what Boniface is capable of at his club,” Eguavoen said. “And then when he comes back here we try to give him a lot of confidence, playing time but he is not hitting the back of the net for whatever reason.”
The coach revealed that he has had personal conversations with the striker in an effort to motivate him.
“I’ve spoken to him personally many times. I’m someone who likes to give players confidence.
I have done enough. But but he we will remain part of the squad,” Eguavoen added.
Despite his struggles, the coach confirmed that Boniface would remain part of the squad, emphasizing his belief in the player’s potential to overcome his current challenges.
