Aina ready for Eagles return
Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina says he is ready for his return to the Super Eagles as Nigeria begins its 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Madaga Read More: https://punchng.com/aina-ready-for-eagles-return/
Defender Ola Aina is thrilled about his return to the Nigeria national team, the Super Eagles, as they prepare for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar on Friday. The match will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, with the Super Eagles hosting their opponents. Aina has been absent from the national team since suffering an injury during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September 2025.
Prior to his latest call-up, he was part of Nigeria's 54-man provisional squad for the 2025 AFCON tournament, but was not selected for the final 28-man squad. Aina expressed his excitement at being back with the team, stating, "It's good to be back with the team and Nigeria." He added, "We don't underestimate any team, we are motivated to do well in the first qualifying game.
We are looking to win and get all three points." Aina has made 48 appearances for Nigeria since his debut in October 2017, providing four assists. His adaptability has also seen him play as both right and left-back for the national team, providing coach Eric Chelle with an additional option in the full-back positions.
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