Promise David Reveals Victor Boniface’s Impact After Canada World Cup Debut

Promise David Reveals Victor Boniface’s Impact After Canada World Cup Debut

By Our Reporter 

Canada international Promise David Akinpelu has credited Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface as one of the most influential figures in his football journey, while also urging Nigerian supporters to get behind Canada at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The 24-year-old forward, who previously represented Nigeria at the U23 level before switching allegiance to Canada, made his FIFA World Cup debut in Canada's opening group-stage fixture against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Introduced in the 60th minute in place of Jonathan David, Promise played a key role in Canada's fightback as the North Americans secured a 1-1 draw with a late equaliser.

Reflecting on the milestone after the match, the Royale Union Saint-Gilloise striker described his World Cup appearance as the realization of a lifelong dream forged through years of hard work and dedication.

“I think we trained our whole life to be at this stage, which is the biggest stage of football,” Promise said.

The striker also spoke of the special feeling of competing at a World Cup hosted on home soil, while acknowledging the support he continues to receive from friends and fans in Nigeria.

“Obviously, all my Nigerian friends always support me, and it is great to have the World Cup at home,” he added.

When asked to identify the Nigerian player who has had the greatest impact on his career, Promise pointed to Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface.

The connection between the two players is particularly significant. Promise joined Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise as the successor to Boniface, who left the club for Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2023.

Since then, the Canadian forward has continued his development in Belgium and is now making his mark on the international stage, with his World Cup debut representing another important milestone in his rapidly progressing career.

As Canada continue their World Cup campaign, Promise will be hoping to build on an encouraging first appearance while carrying the support of fans from both his adopted nation and his country of birth.