Xabi Alonso Confirms Victor Boniface's Absence For Champions League Match After Car Crash

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Victor Boniface will not participate in Bayer Leverkusen's Champions League match against Brest on Wednesday. The striker is recovering from a car accident that occurred on Sunday. Xabi Alonso confirmed his absence, stating that Boniface was still dealing with the shock of the incident. The forward had been a passenger in the vehicle.

Francis Onyeka has been called up to replace Boniface in the squad for the upcoming game. Despite scoring the decisive goal in Leverkusen's 2-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, Boniface sustained minor injuries to his hand and foot during the crash. Alonso mentioned that while Boniface is physically improving, he needs more time to recover emotionally.

Boniface has been impressive this season, netting seven goals across all competitions, including one in the Champions League. Alonso expressed optimism about Boniface's return, suggesting that his absence might not be prolonged. The team hopes to have him back soon for future matches.

Brest and Leverkusen have both secured victories in their first two league phase games of this competition. Leverkusen aims to achieve three consecutive Champions League wins for the fifth time. This would mark only their second instance of winning their opening three games since the 2001-02 season when they reached the final.

Alonso explained that keeping Boniface out of this match is a precautionary step due to health concerns. "He has a small wound on his hand, a small cut on his right foot," Alonso stated. "But the shock is bigger." He added that although Boniface feels better physically, he is not yet ready to play.