From 30 naira football nights to UCL debut – Says Victor Boniface after Leverkusen win

Super Eagles forward, Victor Boniface, reflected on his incredible journey after making his UEFA Champions League debut for Bayer Leverkusen, Soccernet.ng reports.

Boniface recounted his early days in Akure, where he paid just 30 naira to watch Champions League matches at the 323 Army Barracks.

Now, years later, he has achieved his dream by stepping onto the pitch as a player in Europe’s most prestigious tournament for the German side.

In Nigeria, it’s common for football fans to flock to viewing centres, paying to witness their favourite teams compete on the grand stage of the Champions League.

Boniface, once one of those fans, has come full circle—from paying to watch the action to being in the thick of it for Bayer Leverkusen.

“From paying 30 naira to watch Champions League football at night back then at 323 Army Barracks, Akure, to playing my first Champions League game. Proud of this moment,” Boniface wrote on social media, expressing his pride.

From paying 30naira to watch champions league football for night back then for 323 army barrack akure

To playing my first champions league game

Proud of this moment pic.twitter.com/etlu25NbkT

— Victor Boniface (@boniface_jrn) September 19, 2024

Bayer Leverkusen continued their stellar form with a dominant 4-0 victory over Feyenoord at Stadion Feijenoord in Rotterdam. Although the Nigerian international didn’t find the back of the net on his debut, his influence on the game was evident as he posed a constant threat to Feyenoord’s defence.

Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Boniface has flourished and will aim to maintain his strong performances as Leverkusen continue their quest for Champions League glory.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.

Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.

With a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master’s Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.