Victor Boniface made a stunning return from injury as he played a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen’s 2-0 victory over West Ham United in the first leg of their Europa League quarterfinal tie at the Bay Arena on Thursday night. This win extended Leverkusen’s impressive unbeaten streak to 42 games across all competitions.
The Nigerian forward had been enjoying a standout season before sustaining an injury during the Super Eagles’ pre-Africa Cup of Nations training camp in Abu Dhabi. He had already contributed to an impressive 25 goals, scoring 16 times and providing 9 assists.
The game remained goalless until the 83rd minute when Jonas Hofmann capitalized on a rebound from Boniface’s shot to break the deadlock. In injury time, Boniface sealed the victory for Leverkusen with a well-timed header, connecting with a superb cross from Hofmann.
