Xabi Alonso defends Victor Boniface after striker allegedly raises middle finger to opposition

The Nigeria international scored what might be the easiest goal of his career in the 11th minute of the match, simply tapping the ball into the net from close range after Edmond Tapsoba's header directed the ball goalward.

Tensions escalated post-game when Boniface was accused of celebrating Bayer Leverkusen's victory by raising his middle finger towards the VfB Stuttgart players.

According to the German newspaper Bild, several VfB Stuttgart players alleged that the Nigerian striker committed this act, although there is no confirmation of the incident as it was not captured on TV.

The Stuttgart players were reportedly close to leaving the pitch in protest during the celebration, but they were convinced to stay by the club's press officer.

In response to the incident involving Boniface, Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso commented, "I didn't see it, I just heard about it. A lot of things happened, not just that. There was a lot of controversy in the last few minutes, so it's not a big issue."

After Martin Terrier was sent off in the 37th minute, Alonso adjusted to the red card by substituting Boniface for defender Jonathan Tah just four minutes before halftime.

Later, the Super Eagles star received a booking for dissent while on the bench in the 80th minute, following a VAR decision that went against Bayer Leverkusen.

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