Photo Credit: Canada Soccer Official Media / FIFA.
Former Nigeria U23 international and Canada striker Promise David Akinpelu has revealed that Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface has had the greatest influence on his football career.
The Royale Union Saint-Gilloise striker made the revelation after making his FIFA World Cup debut for Canada in their opening Group B fixture against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Promise came off the bench in the 60th minute to replace Jonathan David and helped Canada fight back to secure a 1-1 draw in front of their home supporters.
A Dream Come True
Reflecting on his World Cup debut, the 24-year-old described the occasion as the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.
“I think we trained our whole life to be at this stage, which is the biggest stage of football,” Promise told Bolarinwa Olajide.
The striker admitted that representing Canada at a home World Cup was a special moment and thanked those who have supported him throughout his journey.
Promise Urges Nigerians to Support Canada
Despite now representing Canada internationally, Promise remains proud of his Nigerian roots and revealed that he continues to receive encouragement from friends and supporters in Nigeria.
“Obviously, all my Nigerian friends always support me and it is great to have the World Cup at home,” he said.
The forward also urged football fans in Nigeria to get behind Canada during the tournament.
Boniface’s Influence on His Career
When asked which Nigerian footballer had the biggest impact on his development, Promise did not hesitate in naming Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface.
The admiration carries added significance given the connection between both players at Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
Promise effectively succeeded Boniface at the club after the Super Eagles forward left Union Saint-Gilloise to join Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2023.
Boniface’s rise from Belgian football to becoming one of Europe’s most highly regarded forwards appears to have served as an inspiration for the Canadian international.
Following in Boniface’s Footsteps
Since arriving at Union Saint-Gilloise, Promise has continued to establish himself as one of the club’s important attacking players.
His physical presence, movement, and goalscoring ability have drawn comparisons with Boniface, who enjoyed tremendous success in Belgium before making his move to Germany.
Now playing on football’s biggest stage, Promise will hope to emulate the achievements of the Nigerian striker and continue his own impressive rise in European football.
Analysis
Promise David’s comments underline the influence Victor Boniface continues to have on young Nigerian footballers, both at home and abroad.
Boniface’s journey from the Belgian league to becoming a Bundesliga star has inspired many emerging talents, and Promise’s admiration is further evidence of his growing impact.
For the former Nigeria U23 international, the 2026 FIFA World Cup represents another important milestone in a career that continues to gather momentum.
As Canada look to progress beyond the group stage, Promise will be hoping to make an even bigger contribution and write another chapter in his remarkable football story.
