Ola Aina, a defender for Nottingham Forest, is eager to rejoin the Super Eagles as Nigeria prepares for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The team will face Madagascar in their opening game at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday. Aina has been out of the national team since sustaining an injury during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September 2025. His return to fitness has paved the way for his comeback.
Aina expressed his excitement about being back with the team, stating that his motivation is to perform well in the first qualifying game. The Super Eagles aim to win and secure all three points against Madagascar. Aina was part of Nigeria's run to the final of the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, where they finished as runners-up. Since his international debut in October 2017, Aina has made 48 appearances for Nigeria, providing four assists.
The defender's versatility is an asset to the team, as he can operate at both right- and left-back positions. This gives coach Eric Chelle another option in the full-back positions. Aina's inclusion in the team is expected to bolster their defense as they face Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in their qualifying campaign. Nigeria's 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign is crucial for their chances of advancing to the tournament.
Aina has made a slow start to the Premier League season with Nottingham Forest, making only four appearances so far. However, his return to the Super Eagles is expected to boost his confidence and form. The team's coach, Eric Chelle, will be looking to utilize Aina's experience and skills to achieve a positive result against Madagascar.
The Super Eagles will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo before traveling to face Guinea-Bissau next Tuesday. Aina's return to the team is a significant boost, and he will be looking to make an impact in the qualifying campaign. The team's fans are optimistic about their chances of advancing to the 2027 AFCON.
Aina's international career has been marked by significant achievements, including his debut in October 2017 and his participation in the 2023 AFCON final. He has established himself as a reliable player for the Super Eagles, and his return is expected to strengthen the team's defense. The 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign is a crucial test for Nigeria, and Aina's experience will be invaluable.
The Super Eagles' 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau will be a challenging test for the team. With Aina back in the squad, the team will be looking to secure a positive result and advance to the tournament. The team's coach, Eric Chelle, will be looking to utilize Aina's skills and experience to achieve success in the qualifying campaign.
Key points
- Ola Aina is set to return to the Super Eagles for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar.
