Boniface: Ex-Chelsea defender Rudiger mimics Super Eagles' striker after scoring in thrilling Mexico clash

Former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger has paid a heartfelt tribute to Nigeria Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface after scoring a goal against Mexico. 

Rudiger was on target as Mexico came from behind to share the spoils with Germany after a 2-2 draw.

In what was the second game under new manager, Julian Nagelsmann, the enigmatic Real Madrid star found himself on the score sheet.

The 30-year-old opened the scoring in the 25th minute after he evaded his marker to head home a Gosens flick off a Leroy Sane corner.

Rudiger, who joined Real Madrid from Chelsea as a free agent, went on to celebrate his lovely goal by mimicking Nigeria’s Victor Boniface’s funny celebration. 

It was a moment that transcended the competitive nature of sports and emphasised the spirit of unity and camaraderie that football can foster.

Mexico went on to score two goals in the space of ten minutes through Uriel Antuna and Erick Sanchez to take a 2-1 lead into the break.

substitute, Niclas Fullkrug restored Germany’s lead after the break.

However, moments after the break, super-sub, Niclas Fullkrug, ensured the spoils would be shared when he equalised for Germany in the 51st minute.

After the game, the happy defender took to his Instagram page to celebrate further.

On his story, the German star paid a glowing tribute to Boniface, who he tagged to the celebration with a caption that read “I like that, Boniface.”

The celebration and reaction after were moments that unfolded as a remarkable display of sportsmanship and respect from the talented stopper. 

And in a swift reaction, the 22-year-old Nigerian forward, Boniface, acknowledged his colleague with the caption; “Approved already.”