'Not an ordinary footballer' - Russia defender hails team effort against 'good striker' Boniface

Russia centre-back Viktor Melekhin has praised his teammates for their collective effort in containing Nigeria striker Victor Boniface during Friday's international friendly that ended 1–1 in Moscow.

The Bayer Leverkusen star was on the pitch for 61 minutes but was unable to find the net.

Tolu Arokodare, the striker who replaced Boniface, salvaged a draw for the Super Eagles with a composed finish in the 71st minute, cancelling out Semi Ajayi's 27th minute own goal.

Despite failing to get on the scoresheet, Boniface still left an impression on the Russian defence. 

The highlight of his performance came in the 53rd minute when his brilliant diving header was saved by Russia goalkeeper Matvey Safonov after a cross from Uche.

Boniface's movement kept the Russian backline alert even though clear-cut chances were limited. 

Speaking to Championat.com, Viktor Melekhin said: "Boniface is not an ordinary footballer. He is a good striker, from whom you could sense danger. 

"When he was in the penalty area, you had to play carefully with him. I think our defense and the team as a whole did a good job of closing him down."

Doubts are beginning to surface over Victor Boniface's form at international level, with the striker now goalless in thirteen consecutive appearances for the Super Eagles since making his debut in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sao Tome and Principe in September 2023.

At club level, Boniface has amassed an impressive 102 goal involvements, scoring 72 goals and providing 30 assists across 178 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen, Bodo/Glimt and Union SG.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com