Nigerian football fans were left disappointed as the Super Eagles suffered a surprising 1-0 defeat to Rwanda in a dead-rubber AFCON qualifier last evening. Interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen made the bold decision to bench star striker Victor Osimhen, instead starting Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, but the gamble failed to pay off.

Boniface, who has been in scintillating form for Leverkusen, winning the Bundesliga, DFB Pokal, and DFL Super Cup since joining in 2023, failed to replicate his club heroics in the green and white of Nigeria. The 23-year-old forward managed just one shot on target in a frustrating ninety minutes that left fans clamoring for his exclusion from the squad.

Addressing the media post-match, Eguavoen stood firmly behind the underperforming striker, expressing his belief in Boniface’s abilities while acknowledging his struggles.

“Boniface, we all know what he’s capable of doing, especially for his club,” Eguavoen explained. “When he comes back here, we try to give him a lot of confidence and playing time, but he’s not hitting the back of the net for whatever reason.

I’ve spoken to him personally many times. I’m someone who wants to give players confidence. I’ve done enough, but he’s still part of the squad and will remain a part of the squad.”

Eguavoen’s comments reflect his patient approach to handling players and his commitment to developing the team as they prepare for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. However, with fans growing restless, Boniface will need to rediscover his scoring touch quickly to silence the critics.

The Super Eagles will have another opportunity to make amends against Rwanda during the next international break as they aim to solidify their path to the global stage.