Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has pleaded with Nigerian football fans to remain patient with him amid his goal drought at the international level, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The 24-year-old took to Instagram after scoring for Bayer Leverkusen in their 3-1 victory over Bochum on Friday night, making a heartfelt appeal to supporters.
“9ja (Nigeria) plz (please) be patient with me, the goal will come,” Boniface wrote in his post.
Despite being a prolific goalscorer at club level, Boniface has struggled to replicate that form whilst wearing the green and white jersey of Nigeria. The forward has made 11 appearances for the Super Eagles but has not managed to score a single goal since his debut in 2023.
Boniface was included in Nigeria’s squad for the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe but received limited playing time, featuring for just nine minutes as Victor Osimhen reclaimed his position as the team’s first-choice striker.
Osimhen scored all the goals in those matches, further highlighting Boniface’s struggles.
The Leverkusen forward has faced mounting criticism from Nigerian supporters who have grown increasingly frustrated with his inability to translate his club performances to international success.
Many fans have pointed to the stark difference between his prolific club record and his barren run for the national team.
At club level, however, Boniface continues to shine. Friday’s goal against Bochum was his 11th of the season for Xabi Alonso’s side in just 24 appearances, demonstrating the stark contrast between his club and international performances. The striker has been a revelation for Leverkusen since his move from Union SG in 2023.
His latest goal came in his first start in seven matches for the German champions, tapping in from close range on the hour mark to help secure three vital points in Leverkusen’s title defence.
The clinical finish showcased the very abilities that Nigerian fans have been waiting to see in international fixtures.
Boniface currently isn’t a favourite among Super Eagles supporters, but that could change quickly if he begins finding the net in upcoming international fixtures. The forward will be hoping to convert his club form to goals for Nigeria and win over the fans, especially if those goals help secure a much-needed 2026 World Cup ticket.