Victor Boniface is quickly becoming a household name in European football. Last season, the Super Eagles striker made a significant impact with Bayer Leverkusen, netting 21 goals and providing 10 assists in 34 matches across all competitions, despite battling injuries. This season, he has continued his impressive form, scoring five goals in just eight games. His recent performance included a crucial winner against AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League, piquing the interest of several top European clubs.

Under the management of Xabi Alonso, Boniface has solidified his role as a vital player for Leverkusen. His contributions helped the team secure an unbeaten Bundesliga title and reach the Europa League final last season. The 23-year-old’s talent has not gone unnoticed, with Chelsea sending scouts to observe his latest match.

Alonso recently expressed his belief in Boniface’s potential to achieve greatness, likening him to legendary Chelsea striker Didier Drogba. The young striker confirmed that Alonso encouraged him to draw inspiration from Drogba’s playing style.

Alonso praised Boniface’s remarkable strengths, highlighting his ability to create challenges for defenders. However, he emphasized the need for the young talent to become more aggressive and assertive when attacking the box. “He has many qualities that could make him as formidable as Drogba,” Alonso stated. “His strength and the difficulties he creates for defenders are remarkable.”

As Boniface continues to develop his skills, Alonso remains committed to aiding his decision-making process on the field. “It is a process; we need to help him and push him to make better decisions when it matters most,” he explained.

Having joined Bayer Leverkusen from Union Saint-Gilloise last summer, Boniface has already made a substantial impact on the squad. With his increasing influence, fans eagerly await how he will evolve under Alonso’s mentorship.

In their latest Champions League match against AC Milan, Bayer Leverkusen secured a 1-0 victory, maintaining their perfect record in the tournament. Boniface was the hero, scoring the decisive goal just five minutes into the second half—his first goal in the Champions League. Earlier in the match, he thought he had scored the opener, but a VAR check ruled it out due to an offside.

After the game, Boniface expressed pride in his achievement and the team’s performance. “It’s a great victory; we are happy we got the win. We know how strong AC Milan is, but we had our game plan, and it worked,” he said.

With seven Champions League titles, AC Milan stands as the second most successful team in the tournament’s history. However, Boniface and his teammates successfully tackled this challenge, showcasing their determination.

ALSO READ: Huddersfield Breaks Losing Streak with 2-0 Win Over Barnsley

Reflecting on his scoring ambitions, Boniface shared, “As a striker, it’s essential to score in every game, not just in the Champions League. We aim to perform at our best in every competition.”

Looking ahead, Bayer Leverkusen faces Bundesliga newcomers Holstein Kiel. Boniface remarked, “We take it step by step, focusing on the upcoming match rather than dwelling on the past.”

Following two matchdays in the Champions League, Bayer Leverkusen is currently positioned third in the group, tied on six points with Borussia Dortmund and Brest.

In the last three years, Boniface’s career trajectory has been remarkable. Starting in Norway with Bodo Glimt, he moved to Belgian club Royale Union SG before being signed by Bayer Leverkusen after just one season. At BayArena, the 23-year-old has established himself as a prolific scorer, gaining valuable experience on both domestic and European stages.

This season marked Boniface’s debut in the Champions League, and he made his presence felt in the match against Feyenoord, although he did not score. However, he finally found the back of the net against AC Milan, fulfilling a dream for many young African players.

“I feel good. Representing myself and my club on such a grand stage is what most young players from Africa aspire to do,” Boniface expressed. “I’m proud of my performance and thrilled with the win.”