“Be Patient with Boniface,” Ex-Super Eagles Defender Oparaku Tells Nigerians
Former Super Eagles and Anderlecht defender, Mobi Oparaku, has called on Nigerian football fans to be more patient with Victor Boniface as he continues to settle into life with the national team.
Boniface, 24, had an outstanding debut season in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen, winning both the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal titles. His performances earned him a place in the Super Eagles squad, although he missed AFCON 2023 due to injury.
Despite his club success, Boniface has not yet found his rhythm with the national team. He’s mostly been second choice behind Victor Osimhen, and when given chances to start, his performances have not met expectations.
In Nigeria’s recent friendly against Russia, Boniface was handed a rare start but had a quiet game. He had just one shot on target and completed eight passes before being replaced by Tolu Arokodare, who later scored the equaliser.
Frustrated, Boniface briefly posted on Instagram saying he was retiring from the Super Eagles. He later deleted the post, but it raised concerns about his mindset and pressure from fans.
Oparaku, however, came to his defence. Speaking to Brila, the former Enyimba player said:
“It has been a long season. Many players are tired, both physically and mentally. Boniface is a good player who just hasn’t found his best form with the Super Eagles yet. But he always gives his best and plays with heart.”
While questions remain about Boniface’s future with the Super Eagles, his situation at club level has also changed. Erik Ten Hag, now in charge at Leverkusen, has reportedly told him he is not part of the club’s plans for the 2025/2026 season and should find a new team.
As Boniface faces challenges for both club and country, Oparaku’s message is clear: the young striker needs time and support, not criticism.
