Bundesliga: Africans at the heart of Leverkusen's success

Unbeaten in all competitions this season, Bayer Leverkusen are enjoying an exceptional campaign. The German club owes this dazzling success in part to its strong African colony. Sport News Africa puts the spotlight on 5 players who play a decisive role in Xabi Alonso's team.

Victor Boniface: The right choice

Despite missing three months due to injury, Victor Boniface has made a major contribution to Bayer Leverkusen's extraordinary run. Having arrived last summer from Union Saît-Gilloise, the Nigerian striker quickly made a name for himself. He was involved in 24 of his team's goals (16 goals, 8 assists). The 22-year-old was also voted Rookie of the Month (Bundesliga player of the month) 5 times in succession. All in his first 20 games. A considerable contribution. The Super Eagle's return from injury is great news for the Germans.

He scores goals. 😮‍💨
He wins Rookie of the Month. 😮‍💨
He is Victor Boniface. 😮‍💨🇳🇬#Bayer04 #Werkself | @boniface_jrn pic.twitter.com/RN6exKjwPr

— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) December 20, 2023

Amine Adli: The Super sub

The Moroccan striker held down the fort throughout Victor Boniface's absence. Often used up front, the Atlas Lion stood out for his pivotal play, fighting spirit and determination.He facilitated his team's play thanks in particular to his off-the-ball passing. Amine Adli has already played 31 matches in all competitions, including 16 starts. He has been involved in 16 goals (8 goals, 8 assists). "I've adapted to the league and I know how to create danger," he recently told BeIN SPORTS.

Edmond Tapsoba: a quiet force

Together with Jonathan Tah, they form Leverkusen's rearguard.Edmond Tapsoba (34 games, 3 goals, 1 assist) is a calm, unassuming presence. Solid on his feet, the Burkinabe defender always manages to put his opponents out of harm's way and throw the ball in cleanly. Xabi Alonso didn't hesitate to make use of his technical quality, his ability to read the game and his composure in the construction of his play. He's at the heart of the ball's emergence. Short or long passes, the defender entertains the gallery. He's also not afraid to break through the lines with balls at his feet. A modern defender who attracts the big teams.

Odilon Kossounou: the outsider

The reigning African champion is another of Xabi Alonso's key players.Although he has not played the same number of matches as his Burkinabe counterpart, Odilon Kossounou has nevertheless received special attention from the Spanish coach. It's not for nothing that he has 19 starts in 24 games. The Ivorian defender, who can play in the middle, on one side or as a sentinel, offers a wide range of options. Which makes him a real Swiss Army knife. At the age of 23, he remains a sure bet for the Leverkusen project. He is under contract until June 2026 and is currently valued at 35 million euros on the Transfermarket website.

Nathan Tella: an arrow in the side

His 6 goals and 3 assists in 28 games in all competitions, including just 11 starts, speak for themselves. Often brought off the bench, Nathan Tella 's efficiency is formidable. On his right wing, the Nigerian international gives his opponents a run for their money with his speed and dribbling. A real coup for Bayer Leverkusen last summer.