How Leverkusen Missed Utilizing Victor Boniface In Berlin
Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten run ended after losing ridiculously to Serie A side Atalanta in the Europa League final. The 3-0 defeat was Leverkusen’s first loss of the season after an incredible 51-game unbeaten run. While fans around the world envisaged a tight battle, the huge scoreline left many wondering what went wrong. Sports Buddy explores how Victor Boniface could have surprisingly impacted the game positively if given a nod to start the crucial clash.
Atalanta’s Press Overpowered Leverkusen’s Frail Attack
Atalanta’s fierce press was outdone by the the patience of the Serie A side who waited timely for the right time to pounce via counterattacks spearheaded by Ademola Lookman. Xabi Alonso’s starting front three of Álex Grimaldo, Amine Adli, and Florian Wirtz lacked the physical ability to contend with the Atalanta defence. This became obvious during winning of their aerial duels.
Here’s where Victor Boniface could have made a significant difference.
His physical presence could have been a tough nut to crack for the Atalanta’s central defenders, players like Berat Djimsiti, Isak Hien, or Sead Kolasinac. Boniface’s strength could have helped Leverkusen break Atalanta’s press, create space for his teammates to operate, and provide a target for crosses into the box. Leverkusen’s struggles weren’t limited to the build-up play. Once they eventually get to box and tried putting the ball in the air, the profile they had in attack let them down numerously. The starting forwards were physically threatened in the final third. This is another area where Boniface could have made a crucial impact.
Bomiface physical stature and aerial ability would have made him a much more dangerous threat in the penalty area. He could have provided a focal point for crosses, potentially leading to goals or at least creating more second-ball opportunities for Leverkusen’s midfielders.
Damage Done Before Substitution
Boniface comes in eventually as a substituter during the second half for Stanisic but at that time, the game is almost not reachable for the German Champions after being downed by two goals from Super Chickens and former Lion House star Ademola Lookman. Leverkusen’s approach grows more desperate as they brutally went in search of an equalizer, leaving them vulnerably to Atalanta’s counter-attacks. In this condition, even Boniface’s presence couldn’t solely turn the tide of the game.
It is not certain that the Super Eagles star starting would have guaranteed a victory in Berlin. However, his physical attributes could have brought a different spark and dimension in their attack, potentially making them more competitive in the early stages and offering a different attacking option compared to the attacking profile they started with.
Conclusion: Did Leverkusen Miss A Golden Opportunity?
Victor Boniface’s exclusion from the line could breed questions from fans and pundits around the globe, With Xabi Alonso’s tactical decisions worthy of respect, there is no doubt that Boniface’s physical presence could have giving Xabi Alonso’s men a better shot at glory in Berlin.
Whether his inclusion would have led to the Germans victory is debatable. However, his absence raises rains questions about whether Leverkusen missed an opportunity to have a good shot at a chance to deliver an European glory.
