Ola Aina, a Super Eagles defender, reportedly played the Nigeria vs. Ivory Coast AFCON 2023 final with an injury.
Sulaiman Pooja Adebayo, a Nigerian FIFA and CAF recognized photojournalist, tweeted that Nottingham Forest coach Nuno had divulged this.
Aina was one of the most excellent Super Eagles players in the recently finished competition, earning a spot on the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Best IX team.
However, his performance in the final was regarded to be below average, as the Super Eagles fell 2:1 against the Elephants of Ivory coast.
Meanwhile, the Nottingham Forest coach’s admission has generated responses among Nigerians.
While some complimented the defender, claiming they now understand why his performance fell short of expectations, others faulted the Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro, for failing to replace him.
@MeePlusYou, said: “Why wasn’t he dropped, since he was injured? Why play an injured player when there are fit players on the bench?”
@DStvNg, said: “Some legends give their all for the shirt! Ola Aina played Afcon Final injured? A true champ!”
Cross˚, @Elkrosmediahub, said: “Ola Aina played that finals with an injury???? This explains how Simon Adingra could have turned him inside out.
“Knew something was definitely off!!! Wishing him a speedy recovery.”
@iamOkon, said: “Ola Aina actually played the AFCON final with an injury his coach has confirmed. It’s very difficult to fault any Super Eagles player – they all played their hearts out at the tournament & were all ready to do anything for Nigeria to win. Top mentality all of them! “
SportsDokita (Odogwu ☝️), @Sports_Doctor2, tweeted: “Now this explains that horrible match he had in the finals and this is the more reason I’m not happy with Jose Peseiro!!! *
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