Victor Boniface scores as Bayer Leverkusen reach DFB Pokal semi-final
Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface came off the bench to score the winning goal for Bayer Leverkusen in their 3-2 victory over Koln at the BayArena on Wednesday.
Bayer Leverkusen hosted Koln in their quarterfinal match of the DFB Pokal. Having won the title last year, Die Werkself were eager to continue their push to defend the trophy.
After playing in Bayer Leverkusen’s 3-1 win last weekend, Super Eagles stars Nathan Tella and Victor Boniface started the match on the bench.
Bayer Leverkusen were the favourites to win and dominated the game from the start. However, they couldn’t score in the first half, and Koln took the lead in injury time, with a goal from Damion Downs.
In the second half, Bayer Leverkusen came out strong, with Florian Wirtz, Patrik Schick, and Jeremie Frimpong all missing chances in the first seven minutes. Koln then punished Bayer for their missed opportunities when Linton Maina made it 2-0 in the 54th minute.
Six minutes later, coach Xabi Alonso brought Tella on, and just a minute after that, Schick scored to reduce the deficit to 2-1. Boniface was introduced in the 76th minute, giving Bayer an extra attacking edge.
It seemed like Koln were set for a big win, but Schick scored again late to make it 2-2, sending the game into extra time.
In extra time, Bayer Leverkusen finally finished off Koln, with Boniface scoring the winner in the 98th minute, securing a 3-2 victory.
The goal was Boniface’s second in back-to-back games for Bayer Leverkusen, and he will be hoping to continue his fine form.
