'My Nigerian friends support me' - Canada striker Promise David names Boniface as biggest career influence

Former Nigeria U23 international and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise striker Promise David Akinpelu has identified Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface as the Nigerian player who has had the greatest influence on his career, while urging football fans in Nigeria to throw their support behind Canada at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Promise, who previously represented Nigeria at U23 level, made his FIFA World Cup debut for Canada as a second-half substitute in their Group stage opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The 24-year-old came on for Jonathan David in the 60th minute and played a key role as the Canadians battled back to secure a 1-1 draw in the closing stages of the encounter.

Speaking after the match, Promise reflected on the significance of playing on football's biggest stage, describing the World Cup as the culmination of years of sacrifice and hard work.

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

The striker also expressed delight at competing in a World Cup hosted on home soil, noting the encouragement he has continued to receive from Nigerian friends throughout his journey.

When asked which Nigerian player shaped his journey as a footballer, Promise pointed to Bayer Leverkusen star Victor Boniface.

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

Promise's admiration for Boniface carries added significance, as he effectively succeeded the Nigerian international at Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise after Boniface departed the club for Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2023.