Super Eagles' Victor Boniface praised for touching tribute to youth coach after flying him to Invincibles party

How It started and How It is going: Victor Boniface and Johnson Blessing.

Super Eagles' Victor Boniface praised for touching tribute to youth coach after flying him to Invincibles party

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 08:30 - 19.05.2024

Nigeria's Victor Boniface shared a picture of him and his youth coach Johnson Blessing as they celebrated his progress at Bayer Leverkusen.

Nigeria Super Eagles and Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has shared a heartwarming picture of himself celebrating with his former youth coach Johnson Blessing.

Boniface, who has enjoyed a breakout season with the Bundesliga club, flew Blessing in to witness Leverkusen's final game of the campaign against Augsburg and join in the title celebrations.

Boniface and youth coach warm hearts

The pair were seen in two pictures that defined how it started and how it’s going, with Boniface captioning the post: "If you like give up" - a clear nod to the hard work and perseverance that have propelled him to the top level.

Blessing has been credited as the driving force behind Boniface's development in his formative years in Akure, Nigeria, nurturing the young striker's talents before his big move to Europe.

Johnson Blessing at the BayArena with Victor Boniface after Leverkusen win.
Johnson Blessing at the BayArena with Victor Boniface after Leverkusen win. (Photo Credit: Boniface/X)

The touching gesture has sparked an outpouring of praise on social media, with one fan commenting on Facebook: "Boniface, what you just did by having your childhood coach with you on this historic occasion is nothing but AMAZING!"

Another added: "Did we make it? Yes, we did" - highlighting the journey Boniface and Blessing have undertaken together to reach this point.

Blessing and Victor Boniface years ago in Akure
Blessing and Victor Boniface years ago in Akure

The images have resonated with Nigerian fans, who have saluted the striker's humility and appreciation for the role his youth coach played in shaping his career.

Boniface's heartfelt tribute to Blessing is a reminder of the importance of grassroots development and the unsung heroes who lay the foundations for young players to thrive at the highest level.

Related content