- Bayer Leverkusen coach, Xabi Alonso, has praised Victor Boniface for his impressive display in the team’s 4-1 victory over Hoffenheim but insists the young striker can do more, particularly on the defensive side. Boniface, 23, was instrumental in the win, providing an assist for the opening goal and netting twice to kick off his Bundesliga campaign for the 2024-2025 season.
While Alonso acknowledged Boniface’s offensive contributions, he emphasized the importance of the striker’s role when the team is out of possession. “He can and must do more. He knows it, and the team needs it,” Alonso stated, urging the Nigerian forward to focus on his defensive duties.
Boniface’s second goal in the match was described as a key moment by Alonso, boosting the striker’s confidence after a recent suspension for unprofessional behavior in a previous league match. His performance also helped Leverkusen recover from their defeat to RB Leipzig, which ended their 35-match unbeaten streak in the Bundesliga.
With the away win over Hoffenheim extending Leverkusen’s unbeaten run to 19 games, the team now sits in fourth place in the Bundesliga standings with six points. Boniface’s performance has set a positive tone as the club prepares for their upcoming Champions League match against Feyenoord.
Alonso, however, expects even more from Boniface this season, especially after the striker missed part of the previous campaign due to a tendon injury. As Leverkusen heads into their European fixtures, all eyes will be on Boniface to see if he can rise to the challenge and meet his coach’s high expectations.
