“I don hang boot”: Boniface bows out of Super Eagles in emotional post

By Femi Fabunmi 

Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has sparked speculation about his international future after posting an emotional message on social media following Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against Russia.

Boniface, who started the friendly match in Moscow, struggled to make an impact and was substituted in the 61st minute.

His replacement, Toluwase Arokodare, went on to score the equaliser that secured a draw for the Super Eagles.

Reacting to his performance and the criticism that followed, Boniface shared a heartfelt note on Instagram:
“Proud to play for my country and a dream for me also. Really enjoyed every moment, the good and the bad. Thanks a lot. Thank you all. I don hang boot.”

The phrase “I don hang boot,” commonly used in Nigerian slang, translates to “I have hung up my boots,” indicating a possible decision to retire from international football at least for the time being.

Boniface’s message has generated widespread discussion among fans and pundits, many of whom are debating whether the 23-year-old forward is making a permanent exit from the national team or simply stepping back temporarily after a string of underwhelming displays.

Despite his club success in Europe, Boniface has yet to fully replicate that form on the international stage.

His latest comments add a layer of uncertainty to his future with the Super Eagles as the team prepares for key upcoming fixtures under head coach Eric Chelle.

Boniface fired blanks against Russia on Friday night in Moscow during an international friendly game.

‘I Don Hang Boot’ – Boniface Announces Temporary Retirement from Super Eagles After Disappointing Display Against Russia

Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has hinted at stepping away from international football following a below-par performance in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Russia.

The forward, who earned his 13th cap for the Super Eagles in the friendly clash at the Luzhniki Stadium, failed to influence proceedings and was replaced in the 61st minute by Toluwase Arokodare.

The substitute went on to score the crucial equaliser that salvaged a draw for Nigeria.

Reacting to the game and criticism of his form, Boniface took to Instagram with an emotional post:

“Proud to play for my country and a dream for me also. Really enjoyed every moment, the good and the bad. Thanks a lot. Thank you all. I don hang boot.”

The phrase “I don hang boot,” widely understood in Nigerian parlance, strongly suggests a decision to retire—at least temporarily—from international duty.

This development has triggered widespread reactions among fans and analysts, many of whom are debating Boniface’s future role in the national setup. While some sympathize with his frustrations, others feel he still has more to offer the team.

Russia 1-1 Nigeria: Arokodare to the Rescue

The Super Eagles wrapped up their European tour with a gutsy performance against a formidable Russian side.

Russia had taken the lead in the first half through an own goal by Semi Ajayi, capitalizing on early dominance and relentless pressure.

Despite being without key attacking stars—Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Cyriel Dessers—Nigeria showed resilience. The breakthrough came in the second half after a sloppy back pass from the Russian defence.

Arokodare, who replaced Boniface, pressed high, intercepted the ball, and calmly slotted in his first goal for the Super Eagles in the 71st minute.

The result preserved head coach Eric Chelle’s unbeaten record since taking charge and highlighted the depth within the squad, even in the absence of its star players.

Boniface’s post-match message has left fans wondering whether the talented forward will return to the Super Eagles fold. While the message hints at retirement, it also leaves room for a possible comeback.