Victor Boniface is unfazed by the expectations surrounding him as Nigeria prepares for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya on Friday, according to Sportblog247.com. With star striker Victor Osimhen out due to injury, the Bayer Leverkusen forward is set to lead the Super Eagles’ attack in the first of a two-legged tie.

Despite the spotlight on him, Boniface, Nigeria’s second most valuable player, asserts that he does not feel the weight of responsibility. The 23-year-old remains confident in the squad’s depth and is eager to seize his opportunity.

“We have Awoniyi, Kelechi, and myself,” Boniface stated to ESPN. “Anyone that is called upon will try to win the game. That is the most important thing. Why would the weight be on me? We have other players, and we don’t know who will start for now. But the three of us are ready to give one hundred percent for us to win.”

Although Boniface has yet to score in his eight competitive appearances for the Super Eagles, his impressive form at the club level, with five goals in his last six Bundesliga matches, has fans hopeful he will translate that success onto the international stage.

Nigeria, featuring talents like Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Kelechi Iheanacho, aims to maintain their strong start in the AFCON qualifiers. Currently, they sit with four points from two matches, and Boniface’s contribution could be vital in securing maximum points against Libya.

The first leg will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, with the return match set for Tuesday at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Libya. Meanwhile, Libya’s Mediterranean Knights are struggling at the bottom of the group and will be seeking an upset to keep their qualification hopes alive.