Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface was the standout player as Bayer Leverkusen secured a 1-0 victory over AC Milan in their Champions League clash on Tuesday, maintaining their perfect start to the competition.
The breakthrough came early in the second half when Boniface capitalized on a rebound, smashing home from close range after AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan parried a low shot by Jeremie Frimpong. The goal handed Leverkusen the three points, extending their winning run in Europe’s top club competition.
Leverkusen, last season’s Europa League finalists, have now won both of their Champions League group stage matches without conceding a goal, continuing their strong form under coach Xabi Alonso.
Boniface had an earlier effort ruled out by VAR for offside in the first half, but his persistence paid off, making him a constant threat to the Milan defense. German star Florian Wirtz also played a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s dominance, creating several chances for his side.
Despite AC Milan’s attempts to equalize, with Theo Hernandez hitting the bar and Ruben Loftus-Cheek forcing a late save, the Italian giants fell to their second consecutive defeat in the competition.
Leverkusen had opportunities to extend their lead, but Frimpong and Nathan Tella both missed chances late in the game. Nevertheless, the German side held on for a crucial victory, continuing their impressive run in the Champions League.