Canada international Promise David Akinpelu has hailed Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface as one of the biggest influences on his football career, while also calling on Nigerian fans to support Canada at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The 24-year-old striker, who previously represented Nigeria at U23 level before switching allegiance to Canada, made his FIFA World Cup debut in Canada's opening group-stage match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Promise came on in the 60th minute for Jonathan David and helped Canada secure a 1-1 draw after a late equaliser.
Speaking after the game, the Royale Union Saint-Gilloise forward described his World Cup debut as the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.
“I think we trained our whole life to be at this stage, which is the biggest stage of football,” he said.
The striker also acknowledged the support he continues to receive from friends and fans in Nigeria, expressing delight at participating in a World Cup hosted in North America.
When asked about the Nigerian player who has influenced him the most, Promise singled out Boniface, whose career path closely mirrors his own.
The connection between the pair dates back to Boniface's departure from Royale Union Saint-Gilloise for Bayer Leverkusen in 2023, with Promise arriving as his successor at the Belgian club.
Since then, the forward has continued his development in Belgium and has now taken another significant step in his career by making his World Cup debut for Canada.
As Canada continues their campaign, Promise will be hoping to build on his encouraging first appearance while carrying the support of both Canadian fans and admirers from his country of birth.