AFCON 2025
Bayer Leverkusen face a big task ahead of the UEFA Champions League second round return fixture against Bayern Munich.
The Bundesliga champions have a three-goal deficit to overturn at the Bay Arena on Tuesday night as they hope to qualify for the quarter-finals.
However, Xabi Alonso’s men have been out of sorts since the loss as they lost to Werder Bremen at home on Saturday.
Bayer Leverkusen will have to put up a strong attacking line-up against Bayern Munich, which should have Victor Boniface leading the line.
The Super Eagles striker has not featured for Bayer Leverkusen in the last two games. He is not injured nor is he dealing with personal issues.
However, it seems the striker is facing disciplinary action for a face-off with teammates Emiliano Buendia in a previous match.
Nevertheless, Xabi Alonso will need the services of Victor Boniface on the night after a set-up that backfired in the first leg.
This post examines 3 reasons why Victor Boniface can power Leverkusen to beat Bayern.
1. Power Play
Xabi Alonso played Jeremie Frimpong and Amine Adil as his two attackers in the first leg – a decision he probably regrets. Neither of the attackers provided presence and physicality in Bayer Munich’s box. However, these attributes set Victor Boniface apart among the other strikers. Boniface’s physicality will help Bayer Leverkusen hold up play high on the pitch for other players like Frimpong, Grimaldo, and the likes to feed on. He will also use his physical prowess to wear out defenders like Kim Min-jae and Dayot Upamecano through aerial duels and hold up play, winning fouls and pressings.
2. Clinical Finisher
Victor Boniface is arguably the best finisher at the club. Bayer Leverkusen need to score goals to stand a chance of qualifying for the next round. Consequently, Xabi Alonso is condemned to have Victor Boniface on the pitch to help in converting chances. Even though Boiface has only scored a goal in three matches in the competition, his proficiency in front of goal is an assurance that given the opportunity, the 24-year-old can score decisive goals.
3. Aerial Presence
Victor Boniface adds dynamism to Bayer Leverkusen’s attack. Aside from pace, power, and dribbling skills, the striker also has a strong aerial presence in offense and defense. Kim Min-jae and Dayot Upamecano, unlike the first leg, will have to worry about Boniface’s aerial presence in the box. The striker will win headers and pounce on second balls, which could see Bayer Leverkusen cause damage to Bayern Munich’s leaky defense.
