NFF break silence on Victor Boniface's 'retirement post' and possible Bafana Bafana punishment

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has responded to the recent uproar surrounding Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface’s cryptic social media post hinting at retirement, as well as speculations about possible FIFA sanctions against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player during the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Boniface, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen in the German Bundesliga, stirred controversy after Nigeria's 1-1 draw against South Africa by posting a message on social media that suggested he was stepping away from international duty.

"Proud to play for my country, and a dream for me also. Really enjoyed every moment — the good and the bad. Thanks a lot. Thank you all. I don hang boot,” the 24-year-old wrote in the since-deleted post.

The message sparked a flurry of reactions among Nigerian football fans, many interpreting it as an early retirement announcement in response to criticism over his performance in the match.

However, in an interview with All Nigeria Soccer, NFF's Director of Communications Ademola Olajire downplayed the situation, stating that Boniface was only "jesting."

"You should have noticed that he was jesting. He immediately deleted the post,” Olajire told allnigeriasoccer.com, suggesting there was no serious intention behind the message.

The NFF official also addressed growing calls for sanctions against South Africa, following allegations that Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena was fielded against Lesotho despite having accumulated two yellow cards in previous qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Zimbabwe.

Mokoena was fielded in the match against Lesotho, raising questions about his eligibility and sparking calls for a point deduction.

When asked about the matter, Olajire clarified that the NFF had yet to receive any communication from FIFA.

"We have not. That is up to FIFA. But the rule is the rule,” he stated, suggesting that any disciplinary action would depend entirely on the world football governing body.

In a related development, Olajire dismissed reports claiming that Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle had requested a venue change for upcoming qualifiers away from the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

“I cannot speak on any change of venue of Eagles games,” he added.

Nigeria currently sit fourth in Group C of the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, behind South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin Republic, raising concerns about their qualification chances for the tournament to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale

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