Super Eagles striker, Victor Boniface recently shared his disappointment over being left out of the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award shortlist, Nigeeriasoccernet.com gathered.
Despite his pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga triumph and DFB-Pokal victory last season, the Nigerian striker was not included among the nominees. This omission has sparked conversations given his impressive form during the campaign.
Speaking with Nigerian journalist Oluwashina Okeleji, Boniface admitted his frustration: "Of course, I’m disappointed not being shortlisted. If it’s what I did last season, I should be disappointed, but I don’t stress about it." However, he remains optimistic and appreciative of his achievements, choosing to focus on his future contributions both to the club and country.
When asked about his pick for the prestigious award, he displayed unwavering support for his Super Eagles teammate Ademola Lookman, stating, “If I’m to pick the winner, it would be Lookman 100 percent,” He added with a hint of humor, “And if I were there, I would pick myself.”
On a different note, Boniface addressed the possibility of another Bundesliga team replicating an unbeaten season, reflecting on how competitive the league has become. He remarked, "I don’t know if we would ever see a team go unbeaten in the Bundesliga again. I can’t see the future, but I hope not."
Boniface recently featured for the Super Eagles in their AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Benin Republic, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
While the CAF nomination snub may be a setback, the 23-year-old striker remains one of Nigeria’s most promising football talents, poised to continue his rise in European and international football.
Oluwayemi Omolagba