Nigerian striker makes immediate impact off the bench as Leverkusen seal 2-1 pre-season victory at St James’ Park.
Victor Boniface returned to the scoresheet in decisive fashion as Bayer Leverkusen secured a 2-1 victory over Newcastle United in their pre-season friendly at St James’ Park on Saturday.
The Nigeria international came off the bench late in the second half and needed only a short time to make his mark, scoring the winning goal in the 82nd minute to hand Leverkusen victory in their final preparations for the new season.
Ibrahim Maza had put the visitors in front inside the opening minute, but Newcastle restored parity through Malick Thiaw shortly before half-time.
With the game heading towards its conclusion, Boniface provided the decisive moment.
Maza gives Leverkusen early advantage
Leverkusen made an explosive start at St James’ Park.
Maza broke the deadlock after just one minute, giving the German side an early lead and putting Newcastle on the back foot.
The hosts gradually settled into the contest and created opportunities of their own, with Leverkusen goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky and the defence called upon to deal with Newcastle’s attacking threat.
Newcastle eventually found their way back into the match before the interval.
Thiaw levels for Newcastle
The equaliser arrived in the 44th minute.
Malick Thiaw rose to meet a corner and directed his header into the net, sending the teams into half-time level at 1-1.
The second half remained competitive, with both teams making changes as they continued their preparations for the 2026/27 campaign.
Leverkusen introduced Boniface and fellow Nigeria international Nathan Tella during the closing stages.
Tella replaced Afonso Moreira in the 81st minute, while Boniface also entered the game around the same period.
Boniface delivers the winning moment
Boniface did not take long to make his presence felt.
Just moments after entering the contest, the Nigerian forward found the net to restore Leverkusen’s advantage.
The goal came in the 82nd minute, with Boniface finishing from inside the box to make it 2-1.
Newcastle attempted to respond, but Leverkusen held on to secure the victory.
For Boniface, it was an encouraging return to the spotlight after his recent injury concerns, giving the Nigerian striker an important boost ahead of the competitive season.
Tella also features for Leverkusen
Boniface was not the only Nigerian involved in the match.
Tella also featured for Leverkusen after replacing Moreira in the 81st minute. The Nigeria international was involved in the closing stages as his side protected their lead.
The two Nigerians therefore finished the evening on the winning side, with Boniface providing the decisive contribution.
Boniface gives Leverkusen another positive sign
The victory gives Leverkusen another encouraging result as they put the finishing touches to their pre-season preparations.
For Nigerian football supporters, however, the biggest talking point will be Boniface’s late winner.
The striker’s ability to come off the bench and immediately decide the contest will provide encouragement as he looks to make his mark for Leverkusen in the new campaign.