Boniface settles for bench role: Eagles star watches on as Moroccan boy fires Leverkusen towards Bayern

Boniface benched in Leverkusen crucial win! (Photo Credit: Bundesliga)

Boniface settles for bench role: Eagles star watches on as Moroccan boy fires Leverkusen towards Bayern

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 17:28 - 22.02.2025

Nigeria and Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface was reduced to only seven minutes as Patrik Schick and Amine Adli fired Bayer Leverkusen closer to leaders Bayern Munich.

In a one-sided affair, Bayer Leverkusen cruised to victory over Holstein Kiel on Saturday, thanks to goals from Patrik Schick and Amine Adli. 

Nigerian forward Victor Boniface watched from the bench until the final seven minutes of the game, as his team moved within five points of Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports

The first half was a masterclass in dominance by Leverkusen. Schick opened the scoring with his 15th goal of the season—a poacher's strike that drew him level with Omar Marmoush in the Bundesliga's top scorers list, behind only Harry Kane. 

Florian Wirtz then provided a pinpoint pass that allowed Adli to chip past Timon Weiner for the second goal.

Morocco's Adli with the winner for Bayer Leverkusen.
Morocco's Adli with the winner for Bayer Leverkusen.

Despite creating numerous chances throughout the match, Leverkusen's wastefulness and an impressive display by Weiner prevented them from extending their lead further. 

Meanwhile, Kiel struggled to pose any significant threat, managing only one notable attempt when Shuto Machino was thwarted by Matej Kovar.

Match winners for Leverkusen.

Boniface's limited involvement did not impact Leverkusen's performance significantly as they secured all three points comfortably. 

The win keeps them firmly in contention for a top spot in the league table ahead of their upcoming Champions League tie against Bayern Munich.

Victor Boniface featured for only 7 minutes.

With this victory and Bayern Munich drawing 0-0 against Bayer Leverkusen earlier this month, Xabi Alonso’s side remains well-placed to challenge for major honours this season. 

With difficult European competition and domestic battles ahead, maintaining such form will be crucial if they are to bridge the gap between themselves and Vincent Kompany’s Bavarian giants.