Victor Boniface suspended and fined for unsportsmanlike conduct in Super Cup match

Nigeria and Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface has been handed a one-game suspension and a substantial fine after being found guilty of unsportsmanlike conduct during his team’s recent Super Cup match against VfB Stuttgart.

The German Football Association (DFB) announced the decision on Wednesday after investigating an incident that occurred immediately after the match’s final whistle.

According to a statement from the DFB sports court, Boniface will be banned from participating in one DFB Cup match and fined €25,000 (approximately ₦43.8 million).

The DFB Control Committee charged the 23-year-old with “blatantly anti-sporting conduct” following allegations that he made an obscene gesture—raising his middle finger—towards Stuttgart players during post-match celebrations.

Referee Tobias Stieler, who officiated the game, confirmed that he did not witness the gesture, prompting the DFB’s control committee to pursue further investigation.

Despite the absence of TV footage or concrete evidence, Stuttgart players accused Boniface of the offensive act, leading to a heated exchange and escalating tensions on the pitch.

Both Boniface and Bayer Leverkusen have accepted the verdict, making the suspension and fine legally binding.

The incident has generated significant controversy, particularly given Boniface’s rising reputation in Germany. Last season, he was named Rookie of the Year after an impressive debut campaign that contributed to Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga triumph.

Boniface’s actions during the Super Cup have overshadowed what was otherwise a moment of celebration for Leverkusen.