By Daily Sports Nigeria on July 8, 2026

Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface has paid tribute to Brazilian star Neymar and Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo following their respective exits from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The Bayer Leverkusen striker shared a picture of Neymar on his X account after Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the round of 16, accompanying the post with the caption, “Thank you my GOAT. The best.”

Boniface has never hidden his admiration for the Brazilian, whom he has repeatedly described as one of his football idols. Over the years, the Nigerian international has often praised Neymar’s flair, creativity and fearless style of play, crediting him as one of the players who shaped his love for the game.

The 25-year-old has previously defended Neymar against critics, insisting that the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward deserves greater appreciation for his influence on modern football despite constant scrutiny throughout his career.

Boniface also paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal were knocked out by Spain in the round of 16, sharing a post in honour of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner with the simple message, “Thanks. The Best.”

Ronaldo had confirmed before the knockout stage that the 2026 tournament would be his final FIFA World Cup.

With a glittering international career that included the UEFA European Championship title in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League triumph in 2019, as well as becoming the highest goalscorer in men’s international football, the 41-year-old is yet to decide on his international future.

Neymar’s elimination also fuelled speculation that the tournament may have marked his final appearance for Brazil, having been out of the team for a long time before he was included in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.

Brazil’s all-time leading scorer has battled injuries in recent years but remains one of the most gifted players of his generation, having won numerous domestic titles in Spain and France as well as the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona.

Boniface’s messages reflected the admiration many members of the younger generation of footballers have for Ronaldo and Neymar, whose careers have influenced countless players across the globe through their achievements, longevity and contrasting styles of play.

Source Punch Ng

Posted July 8, 2026

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