Forest star suffers fresh injury in Nottingham Forest clash, doubtful for AFCON 2025 qualifiers

Ola Aina, a defender for the Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest, sustained an injury during his team’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth at the City Ground, according to Soccernet.ng.

The 27-year-old began the match for the Reds at left-back, and he played a respectable first half. In the 23rd minute, Kiwi striker Bobby Wood gave Nuno Espirito Santo’s team the lead.

A twist in his ankle caused the former Chelsea defender to have to be replaced ten minutes into the second half. Harry Toffolo, an England left back, took his place right away.

As the Super Eagles get ready for their AFCON 2025 qualifiers in the first few days of September, Aina’s injury will be a concern for the team’s coaching staff and a major setback for Nigerian football fans in general.

The former Torino player is questionable for the full-back positions in the squad due to a recent injury concern. He missed Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches back in June. Ismail Sadiq, the wing-back for Remo Stars, was called up in June as a result of his absence.

Since the club has not yet released an official statement, it is currently unknown how serious Aina’s injury is, but details should become clear in the days ahead.

The goalscorer was replaced in the 72nd minute by Taiwo Awoniyi, another Super Eagles star, but Taiwo could only manage a shot on goal as Forest gave up their narrow lead to begin the season with a point at home.

The former Union Berlin striker had a difficult season due to numerous injuries, missing 18 games and being substituted 11 times in 20 appearances.

Due to family matters, he also missed the majority of Forest’s preseason games. Although he is still not fully fit, he still has three games left to get well and, ideally, be included in the Super Eagles AFCON qualifying team the following month.

As the Super Eagles prepare for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, they still do not have an official coach. On September 7 and September 10, respectively, they will play Benin Republic and Rwanda, respectively.