Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has announced his early retirement from international football, ending his stint with the Super Eagles at just 24 years old.
The Bayer Leverkusen forward made the unexpected announcement via Instagram late Friday, expressing deep appreciation for the opportunity to represent Nigeria.
“It’s been a dream come true to wear the national colours. I’ve appreciated every part of the journey—both the challenges and the successes. Thank you all. I’m stepping away,” he wrote.
Boniface’s decision comes in the wake of Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Russia in a friendly played in Moscow. He started the match but did not score, with substitute Tolu Arokodare netting the equalizer in the second half.
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The young striker has faced mounting criticism in recent months due to a lack of goals for the national team, despite an impressive record at the club level. His international performances have often drawn mixed reactions from fans and pundits.
His exit also coincides with growing uncertainty about his club future. With Dutch manager Erik ten Hag now at the helm of Bayer Leverkusen, speculation is rife that Boniface could see limited playing time or be moved in the transfer window.
Boniface, who was part of Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga-winning squad in 2024, retires from international duty with only a handful of caps and no competitive goals for the Super Eagles.
His abrupt departure has sparked debate within Nigeria’s football community, with some viewing it as a loss of potential while others see it as a result of poor management and fan pressure.
