Victor Boniface scores late winner as Leverkusen reach DFB-Pokal semi-finals

Bayer Leverkusen advanced to the DFB-Pokal semi-finals with a 3-2 comeback win over FC Cologne at the BayArena on Wednesday night.

Nigerian striker Victor Boniface, returning from a two-month injury layoff, came off the bench to score the decisive goal in extra time.

Cologne took the lead through Damion Downs in the first half and doubled it through Linton Maina in the 54th minute.

But Patrik Schick pulled one back for Xabi Alonso’s side just past the hour mark.

The Czech forward then forced extra time with a stoppage-time header.

Boniface, introduced in the 76th minute, secured Leverkusen’s victory eight minutes into extra time, side-footing home from close range.

The Super Eagles striker now has ten goals across all competitions this season, including seven in the Bundesliga, and one each in the DFB-Pokal, Champions League, and German Super Cup.

Leverkusen, last season’s DFB-Pokal champions, remain strong contenders for the title this season.