As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers approach in three weeks, Nigeria faces a potential setback with defender Ola Aina sustaining an injury during Nottingham Forest’s Premier League season opener.

Nottingham Forest hosted Bournemouth at the City Ground on Saturday, where Aina started at left-back.

Both he and Taiwo Awoniyi were in action as Nottingham Forest began their 2024/25 Premier League campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth. 

Unfortunately, Chris Wood’s first-half strike was canceled out by a late goal from Antoine Semenyo.

Nottingham Forest encountered an early blow when star midfielder Danilo was substituted following a concerning injury from an awkward collision, sparking fears that the injury might be serious.

Less than 10 minutes into the second half, Nottingham Forest’s troubles deepened as Nigerian defender Aina was forced off with an apparent injury. 

The Nigerian was replaced by Harry Toffolo in the 54th minute after he complained of discomfort and was seen limping off the pitch.

The full extent of Aina’s injury is not yet known, but the Super Eagles coaches will hope it’s not too serious, with the team set to face Benin and Rwanda in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers in early September.

Aina didn’t feature in the last two World Cup qualifiers under former coach Finidi George, but his absence was felt. 

Nigeria’s players pose for a team photo ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers group C football match against Benin. (Photo by ISSOUF SANOGO/AFP via Getty Images)

He played a crucial role in Nigeria’s run to the AFCON final in February, despite playing through injury.

After months on the sidelines, Aina returned to action looking fresh and agile, making this latest injury all the more disappointing.