Interim Nigeria coach Augustine Eguavoen has defended Victor Boniface following another average performance for the Super Eagles.

The Bayer Leverkusen striker once again failed to impress after being handed a starting role ahead of Victor Osimhen in Nigeria's 2-1 home defeat to Rwanda in the last African Cup of Nations qualifier on Monday, November 18.

Boniface, 23, has managed just a single goal in 11 appearances for the Super Eagles, a stark contrast to his form with Leverkusen.

Boniface has struck 29 times and provided 11 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions since joining Xabi Alonso's side from Royal Union SG in the Belgian Jupiler League last year.

His only goal for Nigeria came in a 2-2 draw against Saudi Arabia in an international friendly last year.

Speaking on Boniface's struggles in front of goal at a post-match press conference, Eguavoen backed the struggling striker to find his scoring form, adding that he remains a part of the national team.

“Yes, good question. Boniface is capable of great things, especially at his club. When he comes here, we try to give him a lot of confidence and playing time,” he said.

“I’m somebody who wants to give players confidence. I’ve done enough, but for whatever reason, he’s still not clicking with the team.”

“He’s still part of the squad. He will remain part of the squad,” Eguavoen stated.

Nigeria finished at the top of Group D with 11 points despite losing their last qualifier encounter against the Wasps of Rwanda.