Hidden Gem: Top expert names Victor Boniface among World's most underrated strikers

Victor Boniface hailed after brilliant return to scoring at Leverkusen.

Hidden Gem: Top expert names Victor Boniface among World's most underrated strikers

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 07:26 - 29.03.2025

Victor Boniface put aside a disappointing international break with Nigeria's Super Eagles to star for Bayer Leverkusen on his return to the starting eleven.

Nigeria’s Victor Boniface brushed off a frustrating international break with the Super Eagles to deliver a standout performance for Bayer Leverkusen upon his return to the starting lineup.

The 24-year-old striker marked his comeback with a clinical goal, earning high praise from renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who has labeled him one of the most underrated strikers in world football.

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Boniface made his first start in seven matches for the German champions and wasted no time proving his worth.

His well-taken goal helped Leverkusen secure a 3-1 victory over Bochum, restoring their lead after a spirited equaliser from the visitors.

Victor Boniface is smiling again after a poor outing with Nigeria.
Victor Boniface is smiling again after a poor outing with Nigeria.

The result allowed the Bundesliga titleholders to keep the pressure on league leaders Bayern Munich.

For Boniface, it was a triumphant return to form after a challenging spell on the international stage, where he struggled to replicate his club heroics during Nigeria’s recent matches.

Boniface with Victor Osimhen during the break. || X

The Super Eagles’ faltering campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup left the young forward under scrutiny, but his latest display in Germany has reignited the conversation about his immense potential.

Romano, a trusted voice in football circles, took to his Facebook page to shine a spotlight on the Nigerian international.

Boniface liberated from Super Eagles chains.

“Name an underrated striker around the world… we’ll start with Victor Boniface,” he wrote, applauding the striker’s sensational return to the scoresheet.

The Italian journalist’s endorsement underlines Boniface’s growing reputation as a hidden gem in European football.

Victor Boniface started his first game for Leverkusen in 7 matches.

However, not everyone agrees with Romano’s assessment. Some fans voiced their skepticism, pointing to Boniface’s inconsistent performances for Nigeria as a sticking point.

“This guy hasn’t proven himself at national level, let him just replicate what he’s doing at Leverkusen in Super Eagles,” one supporter commented.

Victor Boniface has scored 8 goals in 11 starts for Leverkusen. | Imago

Another added, “A striker that can only perform well and score for his team but can’t do the same at national level. Underrated striker indeed.”

The debate highlights the polarising nature of Boniface’s career trajectory, with his club form often outshining his contributions for the Super Eagles.

Boniface has scored 11 goals this season for Bayer Leverkusen across comps || Imago

Despite the criticism, Boniface’s numbers at Leverkusen speak for themselves. The forward has now netted eight goals in just 11 starts this season, bringing his total to 11 goals and one assist in 23 appearances across all competitions.

His latest strike serves as a reminder of his predatory instincts and ability to deliver when it matters most for the Bundesliga champions.

Boniface’s resurgence could prove pivotal for Leverkusen in their quest to catch leaders Bayern Munich and also defend their Bundesliga title.

But for now, the Nigerian star remains a name to watch—underrated to some, unproven to others, but undeniably talented on his day.