Victor Boniface has been named in Bayer Leverkusen's squad for their UEFA Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, as confirmed by manager Xabi Alonso during a pre-match press conference. The 24 year old striker returns to action after a nine-week layoff due to a muscle injury sustained during a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Rwanda.
Though initially expected to make a quicker recovery, Boniface encountered setbacks in his rehabilitation, forcing him to miss several games, including matches against Borussia Dortmund, FSV Mainz, and Borussia Mönchengladbach. However, the Nigerian forward trained fully with the team on Monday before traveling to Madrid, paving the way for his return.
Alonso revealed that Boniface would start on the bench but expressed optimism about his progress. "Victor is getting better and better, and he will be in the squad tomorrow. He’s feeling good, and it’s great that he is back with us," said the Leverkusen coach.
Despite Boniface’s absence, Leverkusen has thrived, with Patrick Schick stepping up to score 16 goals in 23 matches. The team is on an impressive winning streak, having secured 11 consecutive victories, including two in the Champions League.
Editorial
Victor Boniface’s return to Bayer Leverkusen's matchday squad comes as a relief, not just for the team but for fans eager to see him back in action. After a challenging nine-week recovery, this announcement underscores the resilience required in football, both physically and mentally.
Leverkusen demonstrated remarkable depth during his absence, maintaining form with a string of victories. Patrick Schick's outstanding performances filled the void left by Boniface, showcasing the team's adaptability. However, Boniface's unique skill set and flair for decisive moments will undoubtedly add an extra dimension as they face Atletico Madrid.
This situation highlights the importance of squad depth in modern football. Injuries are an inevitable part of the game, and the ability to adapt separates good teams from great ones. Boniface’s return, even from the bench, offers hope and an extra attacking option that could prove pivotal in critical matches.
As Leverkusen continues its Champions League campaign, fans and teammates alike will look to Boniface for moments of brilliance. His journey back to fitness is a testament to his determination, and we believe he has much to contribute to the team's success in the coming weeks.
Did You Know?
Victor Boniface began his European football career with FK Bodø/Glimt in Norway, where he won the Norwegian league title.
Bayer Leverkusen’s 11-game winning streak is among the longest in the club’s recent history.
Patrick Schick, who stepped up in Boniface’s absence, was the top scorer of the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament, tied with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite reaching the final three times, Atletico Madrid has never won the UEFA Champions League.
Bayer Leverkusen’s most notable European triumph was their 1988 victory.
