Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has revealed the reason behind his unconventional celebration during their 3-0 win over Hoffenheim, where he pulled down his shorts while facing the home crowd.
The 23-year-old Nigerian forward explained that the gesture was a nod to a TikTok trend, fulfilling a promise he made to a Nigerian influencer.
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“I didn’t want to provoke anyone,” Boniface clarified during the post-match press conference. “It’s a TikTok trend from a big influencer in Nigeria. I promised him I would celebrate like that once I scored.”
Boniface’s celebration, which initially puzzled fans and commentators, now makes sense as part of the growing influence of social media in football.
While his antics sparked curiosity, his goal-scoring prowess has been the real story, with Boniface emerging as one of the Bundesliga’s standout talents this season.
When asked to name the influencer behind the trend, Boniface chose to keep that detail private, instead focusing on his football.
His willingness to embrace social media trends has only added to his popularity, showcasing the modern footballer’s engagement with online fan communities.
Boniface’s viral celebration has ignited discussions about how footballers use social media to express their personalities, further bridging the gap between sports and digital culture.
With his form and flair, Leverkusen fans are eager to see if Boniface will deliver more viral moments in upcoming matches.
