Nottingham Forest star Ola Aina endured a rotten appearance for Nigeria earlier today. The Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by Zimbabwe in their latest World Cup qualifier.
Walter Musona fired the hosts into a first-half lead in the 26th minute. Nigeria had to wait until the 67th minute to equalise, with Kelechi Iheanacho firing home to spare his country’s blushes.
Aina joined Forest in the summer transfer window from Torino. He was handed a rare start for Nigeria and sadly for him, he failed to capitalise on some strong early season for the Reds.
Aina struggled during Sunday outing
The 27-year-old was handed the chance to start the game as a right-back for his country. He was hauled off at half-time, however, with Nigeria trailing at the interval.
National media has gone into overdrive and Aina didn’t come out of his latest outing with a glowing appraisal, getting scored a 4/10.
They said of his performance: “Gave the ball away easily, was culpable of conceding the free kick that led to Zimbabwe’s goal and was deservedly brought off at half-time.”
Blip for Aina is nothing for Forest to worry about
Forest fought off competition for the talented defender before they signed him in the summer. Leeds were interested in Aina but Premier League football obviously played a part in his decision.
Aina has been a quality addition to the Forest ranks on a free transfer. He scored his first goal for the Reds earlier this month and was subsequently praised by Dion Dublin.
Forest won’t need to worry about Aina going forward. He’s grown as a player in the Premier League and there will be more to come from the defender as the season progresses.
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