Leverkusen boss Martínez praises Boniface after brief DFB Cup cameo
Bayer Leverkusen manager Carles Martínez praised Victor Boniface after the Nigerian striker's three-minute cameo in Wednesday's 5-2 DFB Cup win over Nürnberg at the BayArena. Boniface replaced Jonas Hofmann in the closing stages, marking just his second appearance this season after featuring against SV Elversberg on opening day.
Martínez acknowledged the 25-year-old's frustration over limited game time, telling Liga Insider: "I'm happy for him because I know he wanted to play and be important. He was good in those few minutes." The Spanish coach's recognition of Boniface's eagerness suggests the forward remains in his plans despite fierce competition for attacking spots.
For Super Eagles watchers, Boniface's minutes drought is concerning. The striker was instrumental in Leverkusen's historic unbeaten Bundesliga title run last season, scoring 14 league goals. This campaign, he's been behind Patrick Schick and new signing Martín Terrier in the pecking order.
With AFCON qualifiers approaching, Boniface needs rhythm. His next chance could come in Saturday's Bundesliga trip to Bochum. Will a few late substitute appearances be enough to sharpen him for Nigeria's crucial fixtures, or does he need a loan move in January to guarantee playing time?