Victor Boniface, Super Eagles of Nigeria striker, has been ruled out of the forthcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) due to injury.
The Bayer Leverkusen forward picked up a suspected groin injury in training and was unable to participate in the two friendly matches the team has played in recent days.
In his absence, the Super Eagles defeated Al Gharib, a local Abu Dhabi-based side, 12-0 before losing 2-0 to Guinea on Monday.
Boniface, who got his first national team invitation last year and has won only five caps, broke the news via an Instagram post wherein he wished the team well in the tournament.
“Good luck guys….. Wish you guys all the best at afcon @ng_supereagles,” he wrote.
Boniface’s injury comes a few days after Wilfred Ndidi, a midfielder, was also ruled out of the continental tournament in similar circumstances.
The 23-year-old’s absence further depletes the quality upfront as he joins striker Taiwo Awoniyi on the sidelines. Kelechi Iheanacho, the Super Eagles’ attacker, also remains doubtful for the tournament.
Nigeria will begin the tournament with its first match against Equatorial Guinea on January 14.