Alonso praises team as Boniface takes down Milan in UCL clash

Victor Boniface’s second-half goal secured Bayer Leverkusen a 1-0 win over AC Milan, keeping the Bundesliga champions perfect start in their Champions League campaign.

The win at the BayArena keeps Leverkusen at the top of Group B with six points, while Milan remain winless after two games.

Boniface netted the decisive goal in the 51st minute, capitalizing on a rebound after Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan saved a shot from Jeremie Frimpong.

Leverkusen dominated early play but were repeatedly denied by Maignan before the final breakthrough.

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso praised his team’s resilience.

“We showed spirit and character. In the Champions League, you have to know how to suffer and fight, not just play well.”

Despite late pressure from Milan, including a near-miss header by Álvaro Morata, Leverkusen held firm to secure the victory.

Milan manager Paulo Fonseca expressed frustration over a non-penalty decision late in the game but acknowledged his side’s struggle to break down Leverkusen’s defense.