Victor Boniface made an emphatic return to action for Bayer Leverkusen, scoring twice in a commanding 7-0 victory over German fifth-tier side Sportfreunde Baumberg in the club’s opening pre-season friendly on Saturday, Trybal News reports.
The Super Eagles striker was making his first appearance for Leverkusen since returning from a loan spell at Werder Bremen, where injuries limited his opportunities throughout last season. His return has already been marked by renewed determination, with Boniface reportedly becoming the first player to report for pre-season training ahead of the new campaign.
New head coach Carles Martínez rotated his squad for the friendly, naming two different line-ups for each half. Leverkusen established a comfortable 3-0 lead before the break through a brace from Afonso Moreira and a goal from Christian Kofane.
Boniface entered at halftime and wasted little time making his presence felt. The Nigerian forward scored twice in quick succession, displaying his trademark movement and clinical finishing by converting two low crosses from close range to extend Leverkusen’s advantage.
Fellow Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella also got on the scoresheet in the second half, reacting quickest to turn home a rebound, while Robert Andrich completed the rout with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area.
The convincing victory gives Leverkusen a positive start to their pre-season preparations as Martínez begins his first campaign in charge. The Bundesliga side will continue their schedule with friendlies against Kickers Offenbach, Sevilla, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
For Boniface, the performance represents an encouraging step after an injury-hit campaign. With competition for the striker’s role expected to be intense, the 25-year-old has made an early statement as he looks to establish himself as a key figure in Leverkusen’s plans for the 2026/27 season.
