Nigerians were excited to see Victor Osimhen shine in the national team colors. The 23-year-old had the opportunity to showcase his talent during the Super Eagles’ first two qualifying matches for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
However, Osimhen, the primary striker, faced challenges at his club. Napoli had signed Romelu Lukaku, leaving him sidelined. He only arrived in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, after securing a season-long loan to Galatasaray, which happened after the regular European transfer window had closed. By then, he was jetlagged and out of form, having not played since the previous season.
Given this situation, interim coach Austin Eguavoen wisely started Boniface against Benin Republic in Uyo. However, Boniface struggled to make an impact and was substituted for Osimhen in the second half, shortly before Osimhen scored Nigeria’s second goal.
Eguavoen maintained his trust in Boniface for the match in Kigali, but he was replaced by Osimhen at halftime. This led to disappointment among fans, with some labeling Boniface a “flop.”
Sports analyst Ope Adebari disagrees, stating, “I won’t say he flopped. He put in a good effort; the main issue was the lack of goals due to him being isolated because of Eguavoen’s tactical approach used during the AFCON tournament.”
Just days after returning from international duty, Boniface scored twice for Bayer Leverkusen in their 4-1 victory over Hoffenheim, demonstrating clinical finishing.
Adebari highlighted the difference in tactics: “Leverkusen uses a 3-4-3 formation with two attacking midfielders who support Boniface, while the Super Eagles rely on wingers. Boniface thrives on link-up play, but struggled with hold-up play for Nigeria.”
Although Boniface may get another opportunity, Osimhen is expected to be in form and ready to start. Adebari believes both forwards could play together, suggesting a front three of Boniface, Lookman, and Osimhen.
He emphasized the need for coaches to integrate the best players effectively. “This combination will only work if Wilfred Ndidi is paired with either Frank Onyeka or Raphael Onyedika instead of Alex Iwobi. The 3-4-3 system needs a holding midfielder and a box-to-box midfielder who are both technically skilled, and the mentioned players can help the front trio succeed for the Super Eagles.”
