Victor Boniface, the Nigerian striker for Bayer Leverkusen, has been hit with a one-match ban in the DFB-Pokal and a €25,000 fine by the German Football Association (DFB). The disciplinary measures come in response to Boniface’s alleged unsporting behavior during his side’s recent victory over VfB Stuttgart in the DFL-Supercup final.
The incident in question occurred during the celebrations following Bayer Leverkusen’s thrilling win over Stuttgart in a penalty shootout. Boniface was caught on camera appearing to show his middle finger towards the opposing team’s players in what the DFB described as a display of unsporting conduct. The act, which took place amidst the tense and emotionally charged atmosphere of the post-match celebrations, did not go unnoticed by the DFB’s disciplinary committee.
In an official statement, the DFB confirmed that Boniface had been suspended for one DFB-Pokal match and fined €25,000 as a result of his actions. The governing body emphasized the importance of maintaining sportsmanship and respect on the pitch, particularly during moments of heightened emotion.