Boniface faces boo boys, but Werder Bremen boss keeps faith in Super Eagles star

Victor Boniface endured a difficult evening at the Weser Stadium as Werder Bremen drew 1-1 with FC Cologne, but despite the whistles from sections of the home crowd and ongoing scrutiny over his form, manager Horst Steffen insists he is not losing belief in the Nigerian striker.

Boniface, currently on loan and fighting to rediscover his rhythm after recurring injury setbacks, now finds himself balancing public criticism with his desire to force his way back into the Super Eagles’ plans ahead of AFCON 2025.

Introduced in the 70th minute for Keke Topp, Boniface found it difficult to influence the closing stages of the match.

The 24-year-old appeared hesitant in key moments, losing possession several times after receiving the ball from a standing start. Isolated whistles and groans were audible from the stands, highlighting growing frustration from supporters who expected more urgency from the forward.

After the match, coach Horst Steffen refused to dwell on individual criticism. “We do not have to constantly evaluate individual players now,” he told Deichstube. He added, “Maybe a goal will help him to become even stronger.”

Bremen had led through a Marco Friedl strike in the 22nd minute before Said El Mala grabbed a late equaliser for Cologne in stoppage time.

Speaking to the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, Boniface was candid about the pressure he faces and the injuries that have shaped his career.

“In football, it is like this: If you play well one season, score goals, everyone expects you to do it the same way the next season. Otherwise people just start talking,” he said.

Reflecting on his long battle with pain, he added, “From my time in Norway until now I have had a lot of pain, but I have made it this far. I am really happy that I managed to play football for such top clubs at all, so I do not know fear anymore. I have to live with it.”

His struggles have already affected his international standing, costing him a place in recent Super Eagles squads. With AFCON 2025 in Morocco fast approaching, his chances of making the final list remain uncertain as he works to regain both fitness and confidence.