Werder Bremen manager Horst Steffen has again publicly criticized Nigerian striker Victor Boniface following the team’s 1-1 Bundesliga draw against Mainz on Saturday.
The Super Eagles forward, on loan from Bayer Leverkusen, delivered another subdued performance. His lack of impact frustrated Steffen as Bremen dropped points at home.
Coach Questions Boniface’s Contribution
“He attempted to hold up play in attack,” Steffen told Bild post-match. “But I kept thinking today: He can perform much better.” The coach’s remarks highlighted his dissatisfaction.
Match statistics revealed Boniface’s struggles. The 24-year-old recorded zero shots on target from 28 touches. He provided no assists and completed just 53% of his passes.
German publication Bild rated his performance a lowly 5. This signified a poor display throughout the 90 minutes.
Extended Goal Drought Concerns
Boniface has now gone seven consecutive Bundesliga matches without scoring. Since joining Bremen, he’s contributed just one assist.
This prolonged slump raises questions about his adaptation to Steffen’s system. The Nigerian’s form contrasts sharply with expectations.
This isn’t Steffen’s first critique of the striker. After a 3-0 loss to Freiburg, he claimed Boniface was “too ‘everywhere’.” That earlier comment highlighted concerns about positional discipline.
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