)
Ola Aina, the Super Eagles' stalwart defender, played a pivotal role in Nigeria's journey to the finals at the AFCON 2023 held in Ivory Coast, featuring in all seven matches and earning a spot in the tournament's best XI.
However, the climax at the continental showpiece was bittersweet for Aina, as Nigeria fell short in the final against the host nation, leaving him with a mix of pride and disappointment.
Nuno Espirito Santo, the mastermind behind Nottingham Forest's tactics, recently opened up about Aina's state of mind following the AFCON heartbreak.
)
14:17 - 16.02.2024
Super Eagles-Eligible Elijah Adebayo Loses Premier League POTM Race to Liverpool's Jota
Liverpool's Diogo Jota emerged as the Premier League's January Player of the Year after beating off stiff competition from Nigeria-eligible Elijah Adebayo
)
18:36 - 15.02.2024
Napoli sweat over Osimhen's fitness for Barcelona clash after star lost up to 4kg during AFCON with Nigeria
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is a fitness worry for Napoli ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League tie against Barcelona next week
Despite the team's remarkable achievement, Aina's return to club duties was overshadowed by the final's outcome. Nuno, empathizing with Aina's feelings, shared insights during a press conference.
“We expect him to arrive today. We mentioned it before, it was a final. Ibrahim, Boly and Serge are champions, and congratulations to them, but Ola is disappointed.
)
"Hopefully, he’ll have another chance in the future,” Nuno said, as reported by Soccernet, acknowledging the contrasting fortunes of his players who participated in the tournament.
Impact on Club Performance
Nottingham Forest's form has seen a downturn, with the absence of key players like Aina during the AFCON 2023 cited as a significant factor.
)
The team's struggle for victories in their recent outings has been palpable, sliding them into a precarious position in the Premier League standings.
As Forest gears up for their upcoming clash against West Ham United, the integration of their returning stars could be the catalyst needed to rejuvenate their season.
Nuno's squad, sitting 16th with 21 points from 24 matches, faces a critical phase in their campaign. The return of Aina, coupled with the championship experience of Ibrahim Sangare, Willy Boly, and Serge Aurier, brings a blend of morale and tactical versatility to the team.
As Forest aims to navigate their way out of the relegation fray, the contributions of their AFCON stars will be under the spotlight.
Aina now has to switches focus from national disappointment to club ambition as Forest battle for survival.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)