Boniface back in Leverkusen squad for German Cup semi-final – Alonso

Nigeria forward Victor Boniface is back in Bayer Leverkusen’s squad for Wednesday’s German Cup semi-final against Bundesliga 2 side, Fortuna Dusseldorf, following a three-month injury absence, as confirmed by coach Xabi Alonso in a press conference on Tuesday.

The 23-year-old underwent surgery on an adductor muscle injury in January, after being injured while preparing with Nigeria for the Africa Cup of Nations.

“We are in a super situation. We have no injuries and a full squad. Boni (Boniface) is also back in the squad,” Alonso told a press conference, with the Bundesliga leaders in the hunt for three trophies this season.

Asked how long Boniface could play in the game, Alonso said: “Not 90 minutes. 45 maybe not. But maybe 30. He has done a good recovery and has trained well. He has a strong mentality to come back. He can’t wait to get back.”

The former Union Saint Gilloise’ striker had scored 10 goals and set up another seven in the Bundesliga before his injury, to help set Leverkusen on course for a first ever German first division title with a 13-point lead over second-placed Bayern Munich with seven games remaining.

They are also through to the Europa League quarter-finals having gone 39 matches unbeaten across all competitions this season.

A win over Dusseldorf in German Cup semi-final, will pit the Black and Reds against another Bundesliga 2 side, FC Kaiserslautern in the final on Saturday, 25 May 2024, at the Olympic Stadium, Berlin.