Heartbroken Super Eagles Star Victor Boniface Threatens to Delete X Account After Nigeria's 2023 AFCON Final Loss to Ivory Coast

Victor Boniface has threatened to delete his social media account after Nigeria's loss to Ivory Coast | Imago, English Ahram

FOOTBALL Heartbroken Super Eagles Star Victor Boniface Threatens to Delete X Account After Nigeria's 2023 AFCON Final Loss to Ivory Coast

Heartbroken Super Eagles Star Victor Boniface Threatens to Delete X Account After Nigeria's 2023 AFCON Final Loss to Ivory Coast

Ayoola Kelechi • 18:54 - 12.02.2024

The Bayer Leverkusen striker led online cheers for the Super Eagles throughout the tournament and was devastated after the AFCON 2023 final loss to Ivory Coast

In the wake of a crushing defeat for Nigeria at the hands of Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, Super Eagles star Victor Boniface expressed his despair in a manner that resonated with many fans. 

The Bayer Leverkusen attacker, sidelined due to a knee injury, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to voice his heartbreak, hinting at stepping away from the social media platform altogether.

 A Devastating Defeat

Ivory Coast secured their third AFCON title after coming from behind to defeat Nigeria 2-1 in a gripping final at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara. The host nation, seeking redemption after their group stage loss to Nigeria, started aggressively, dominating possession and creating numerous chances.

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Despite the Super Eagles taking the lead with a stunning header, the Ivorians fought back, with goals from Franck Kessie and Sebastien Haller turning the game on its head.

Injured Boniface feeling the pressure on social media

Following the defeat, Victor Boniface, who was unable to participate in the tournament due to a knee injury incurred during the Super Eagles' training camp in Abu Dhabi, took to X with a poignant message: “Thank you X. Finally deleting my acct.” 

This post from Boniface underscores the emotional toll the AFCON loss has taken on the players, especially those who could only watch from the sidelines.

Victor Boniface's absence from the tournament was a significant blow to both the player and his team. Having to undergo surgery and miss out on the chance to compete in such a prestigious event was undoubtedly difficult for the young forward. 

His post-match reaction on X highlights the profound connection players have with their national team's fortunes, feeling the weight of loss even when not on the pitch.

Heartbroken Boniface to focus on recovery 

For Boniface and many Nigerian fans, the AFCON 2023 final loss to Ivory Coast is a bitter pill to swallow. The Super Eagles' journey to the final, filled with hope and expectation, ended in heartbreak, illustrating the highs and lows of football. Boniface's contemplated departure from X reflects a desire to disconnect and perhaps shield himself from the barrage of reactions that typically accompany such defeats.

Victor Boniface in action for Bayer Leverkusen | Imago
Victor Boniface in action for Bayer Leverkusen | Imago

As the Super Eagles and their supporters come to terms with the outcome, the focus for players like Boniface will shift to recovery and looking ahead to future challenges. For now, the emotional response to the AFCON final loss serves as a reminder of the passion and commitment that players bring to representing their country, on and off the field.

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Tags:
Africa Cup of Nations Victor Okoh Boniface Nigeria Ivory Coast